Is RSV going around in Germany?

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a globally common cause of respiratory infections. In healthy adults it usually behaves like a straightforward respiratory bug. It can also reach the lower airways and cause bronchiolitis or pneumonia. RSV is highly contagious and spreads via droplets or contaminated surfaces.

Infants and young children are especially vulnerable because their airways are narrow. Premature babies and children with pre-existing heart or lung conditions are in the risk group too. Among adults, people over 60 and those with immune suppression or chronic lung disease are most at risk. In these groups RSV can lead to complications requiring hospital care. Preventive options such as antibody injections or vaccines are now available for risk groups.

Germany's RSV season runs largely in parallel with the flu wave. Infection numbers usually climb from late autumn, peak between December and February, and fade in spring. Intensity varies considerably: after periods of low exposure, RSV waves can hit especially hard because immunity in the youngest age groups has dropped.

RSV activity is tracked through the RKI's virological sentinel network. Samples from sentinel practices are tested at the National Reference Centre for Influenza for several pathogens, including RSV. The AMELAG wastewater signal adds complementary data. These feed into the weekly situation reports and give early warning when pressure on paediatric care is building.

Symptoms can overlap, but there are typical differences. Flu often begins with a sudden high fever, whereas RSV frequently presents with breathing difficulty or wheezing, especially in small children. RSV disproportionately affects the youngest age groups, while influenza hits the whole population. A reliable distinction often requires a lab test.