Brazil sees surge in child SRAG deaths as Acre reports children over 50% of fatalities

The latest epidemiological bulletin from Acre’s health department shows a marked change in the profile of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SRAG) deaths. Up to the 25th epidemiological week of 2026, 50 SRAG deaths were recorded in the state, with children and adolescents up to 19 years accounting for 52% of those fatalities. The youngest age groups saw the steepest rise, including nine deaths among children under two years.

Across Brazil, most states continue to report SRAG at alert, risk or high‑risk levels, according to Fiocruz’s InfoGripe report for week 25. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is responsible for 55.2% of positive SRAG cases, while influenza A accounts for the majority of identified viral deaths (36.7%). The report notes that mortality remains highest among older adults, but the burden of severe cases is shifting toward young children, especially in regions such as the Centre‑South of the country.