Chile sees rise in rhinovirus and RSV infections

Health authorities in Chile reported that respiratory virus activity remains high, with rhinovirus accounting for roughly a quarter of detected cases and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) showing a notable increase to about the same share. In the latest epidemiological week (30, 26 July–1 August), overall test positivity reached 47%, up from 45.4% the week before.

The surge is concentrated among children aged one to four years, a group that also bears the highest burden of influenza‑like illness. Officials urged continued preventive measures—hand hygiene, ventilation, mask use when symptomatic, and avoiding crowded indoor spaces—and emphasized the importance of keeping influenza and RSV vaccinations up to date. Vaccination coverage for influenza stands at 78.4%, while RSV immunisation has reached 97.4% of the target population.