Brazil reports shifting trends in Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome cases

Recent epidemiological data from Brazil indicates varying trends in Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SRAG) across the country. According to a Fiocruz InfoGripe bulletin, SRAG cases are showing a trend of decline or stabilization in 23 of the 27 federative units, though states such as Rondônia, Mato Grosso, Bahia, and Sergipe have shown slight increases.

In the state of Acre, the State Health Department (Sesacre) reported 54 deaths due to SRAG between January 1 and August 1, 2026. While this represents a significant decrease compared to 2024 (159 deaths) and 2025 (106 deaths), the demographic profile of victims has shifted. Deaths among the elderly have dropped substantially, which officials attribute to vaccination coverage and coronavirus control. However, there has been a rise in deaths among children under two years old, which health authorities link to an increase in Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infections.

Despite the general downward trend, 14 states remain at alert, risk, or high-risk levels for SRAG incidence. Experts emphasize that vaccination remains the primary prevention method against influenza, RSV, and COVID-19, and recommend respiratory precautions in crowded or enclosed spaces.