Respiratory viruses show shifting trends in Argentina and Spain

Epidemiological reports from Argentina and Spain indicate shifting trends in respiratory virus circulation. In Argentina, the Entre Ríos province has seen Influenza A as a primary respiratory agent, specifically the J. 2. 4. 1/K subclade of H3N2. In Santa Fe, there has been a notable shift where Influenza A is declining, being replaced by Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and metapneumovirus, which are heavily impacting children under two years old. National data shows RSV remains a leading cause of hospitalization among young children.

In Spain, health authorities report an increase in respiratory infections coinciding with the return to school and office work. Influenza positivity has doubled compared to the previous year, with the H3N2 strain being prominent. Additionally, SARS-CoV-2 circulation is rising, particularly among infants under one year old. Medical experts emphasize the importance of maintaining vaccination efforts, noting that while COVID-19 is no longer in a pandemic phase, it remains a significant risk for vulnerable populations, including the elderly and immunocompromised.