An Early Winter Wave of Respiratory Infections Hits Hospitals
Last week, nearly 300 people were hospitalized with a common respiratory bug, adding to the strain on children’s hospitals amidst an early winter wave of infections.
According to the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC), cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) increased by 36% last week compared to the previous week. The current levels of RSV infections are tracking the very high levels seen last winter, with 617 cases recorded last Friday, up from 454 the previous week. The majority of cases, 507, are in children aged up to 14, with cases among over 65-year-olds also on the rise.
The surge in RSV cases has led to 284 hospitalizations, an increase from 240 the previous week, matching the severity of the virus seen at any point last winter.
In light of these developments, the Health Service Executive has expressed concerns about the low uptake of vaccines that may be contributing to increased pressure on hospitals. Deliberations are ongoing regarding the inclusion of two recently-developed RSV vaccines in the State’s immunization program.
On the Covid-19 front, infection rates appear to be stable, with 486 cases reported last week, down from 531 the previous week. The number of hospitalized patients testing positive for Covid-19 also decreased from 287 to 249.
Meanwhile, flu infections remain low and stable, with 64 cases reported last week, compared to 66 the previous week, and 17 hospitalizations due to flu.
Vaccine uptake among the population remains a concern, with only 59% of those aged 70 and over receiving the flu vaccine so far this winter. Additionally, just 11.5% of healthcare staff have availed of a Covid-19 booster, while 24.3% have received the flu vaccine, according to new figures.
As hospitals continue to contend with the surge in respiratory infections, authorities are emphasizing the importance of vaccination to mitigate the strain on healthcare systems.