Respiratory Illnesses Declining in Germany, But RSV Remains Persistent
As spring arrives in Germany, many are enjoying milder temperatures and sunshine. However, a significant number of people continue to experience respiratory symptoms like coughs, colds, and fever. Current data from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) provides insights into the prevalence of influenza, RSV, and other respiratory viruses.
Flu Wave Ebbing, RSV Cases Remain Steady
According to the latest RKI weekly report for calendar week 10, the number of acute respiratory diseases is steadily decreasing. The peak of the influenza wave has passed, with fewer people currently affected by the flu. However, the spread of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) continues to affect all age groups. Other respiratory viruses are also currently circulating.
Hospital visits due to acute respiratory infections are also decreasing compared to the previous week. Outpatient doctor visits for flu and RSV have also significantly declined.
Current Viral Circulation
Data from the National Reference Center (NRZ) for influenza viruses indicates that RSV viruses are still present in 20 percent of nasal and throat swab samples, while influenza A viruses were identified in 19 percent of samples. Coronaviruses account for 14 percent, and human metapneumoviruses for 10 percent of samples analyzed. RKI
Wastewater Analysis Confirms Trends
Analysis of wastewater from sewage treatment plants, another method for tracking the spread of infectious diseases, shows a continued decline in the viral load of influenza A viruses. However, the RSV viral load remains constant, while coronavirus rates remain consistently low.
Data from Bavaria
In Bavaria, 527 influenza cases were reported to the LGL (Bavarian State Office for Health and Food Safety) in the 10th calendar week of 2026. The total number of cases for the 2025/26 season currently stands at 43,935. The LGL forwards this data to the RKI for national compilation. LGL
Looking Ahead
While the overall trend indicates a decrease in acute respiratory illnesses, the persistence of RSV highlights the continued need for vigilance. The RKI continues to monitor the situation and provide regular updates and recommendations. RKI