Mexico City – Health officials are alerting the public to a rise in Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) cases as the winter season progresses, adding another concern to the ongoing circulation of influenza and COVID-19. RSV is now considered the third major respiratory virus of concern.
The world Health Institution (WHO) identifies RSV as a leading cause of acute lower respiratory tract infections in young children and a significant cause of severe illness in older adults. While most RSV infections present as mild upper respiratory illnesses, the virus can cause severe, and potentially fatal, lower respiratory tract infections. The National Committee for Epidemiological Surveillance (Conave) first issued a notice regarding increasing RSV cases on November 15, 2023, specifically noting rises in the State of Mexico and Mexico City.
Recent data from the Ministry of Health indicates that, at the end of 2024, RSV accounted for 47% of positive cases categorized as other Respiratory Viruses (OVR)-excluding influenza and SARS-CoV-2. Though RSV circulates year-round, incidence spikes during the winter months, disproportionately impacting individuals aged 60 years and older.
