The Ministry of Public Health, through the Expanded Immunization Program (PAI), continues to offer the annual influenza vaccine, which reduces the risk of severe complications and mortality associated with the virus. Effective protection begins two weeks after administration. The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine is also available, targeting newborns between November 2025 and July 2026, and children under 1 year with risk factors.
The latest report from the General Directorate of Health Surveillance shows a 10% increase in demand for respiratory consultations in the last week, and an 11% rise in hospitalizations. Notifications of influenza-like illness (ILI) at Sentinel Centers rose from 2,419 to 2,671 cases. The trend curve remains above the seasonal threshold, totaling 42,227 ILI consultations nationwide.
In epidemiological week 18, 324 hospitalizations for severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) were recorded, with 17% admitted to intensive care units. The highest percentage of hospitalizations is among adults aged 60 or older (22%), followed by the 5 to 19 age group (21%) and children under 2 (18%).
Respiratory viruses identified among hospitalized patients include rhinovirus, unsubtyped influenza A, parainfluenza, influenza A (H3N2), RSV, and adenovirus. In 2026, 72 deaths from respiratory viruses have been confirmed, with two in the last week, both associated with influenza A (H3N2).
The health ministry recommends wearing a mask if respiratory symptoms are present, seeking medical care, resting, and not sending symptomatic children to school. It also advises covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, frequent hand hygiene, and avoiding contact with sick people.