Breaking: RSV Infections Surge in Galicia, Latest Health Data Show
Galicia’s health authorities released a fresh weekly update confirming a rise in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity across the region. the latest positivity rate stood at 9.8 percent for the January 12–18 window, up from 8 percent the week before.
The regional Health Ministry says the uptick is accompanied by more respiratory visits. During the same period,primary care clinics reported a 20.4 percent increase in bronchiolitis consultations among children under two years old, with a smaller 5 percent rise observed in the cohort born between April and September 2025.
Hospital and vaccination trends
Last week, one minor born in the April–September 2025 window was admitted to hospital. There were no infants under two months hospitalized during the period, according to the report.
Immunization coverage against RSV remains high in Galicia.Babies vaccinated at birth within the campaign reached 93.2 percent, while those vaccinated outside the campaign window (April–September 2025) stood at 94.9 percent.
Along with the ongoing pediatric cases, hospital admissions associated with RSV extended to older populations. In the most recent week, four minors born between April 1, 2024 and March 31, 2025, and two born between April 1, 2023 and March 31, 2024, were hospitalized with RSV.
RSV-related hospitalizations affected 35 adults aged 60 and above, including 25 individuals over 80.
Vaccination study and broader context
The health Ministry continues to pursue the Sincigal clinical trial, which aims to determine whether vaccination can reduce hospital admissions in Galicia. The trial has enrolled 32,617 participants to date, according to officials released earlier this week.
RSV is a common virus that typically causes cold-like symptoms in adults and healthy older children. However, it can pose serious risks for infants and seniors, especially those in high-risk groups.
Key facts at a glance
| Aspect | Status / Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| RSV positivity (week of Jan 12–18) | 9.8% | Up from 8% the prior week |
| Bronchiolitis consultations (under 2) | +20.4% | Higher activity in primary care |
| group birth window with +increase | april–September 2025 | Bronchiolitis visits up by 5% |
| Single pediatric RSV hospitalization last week | 1 | Child born Apr–Sep 2025 |
| Infants hospitalized (under 2 months) | None | During the period observed |
| Vaccination coverage at birth (campaign) | 93.2% | Galician hospitals |
| Vaccination coverage (outside campaign) | 94.9% | April–Sept 2025 window |
| RSV hospitalizations (older adults 60+) | 35 total | Includes 25 over 80 |
| Sincigal trial participants | 32,617 | Ongoing evaluation of vaccination impact |
For readers seeking broader context, RSV is widely recognized as a seasonal respiratory virus. Authorities recommend staying up to date with vaccinations where available and following guidance to protect vulnerable populations, especially during peak periods.
Expert reflections and public health outlook
Health officials emphasize continued surveillance and vaccination as central tools to mitigate hospitalizations. Experts also urge households to maintain preventive measures during RSV season, particularly around infants and older relatives.
Learn more from global health authorities about RSV and vaccine guidance:
WHO RSV overview and
CDC RSV fundamentals.
Why this matters in the long term
Beyond weekly swings, the data underscore the importance of robust vaccination programs and sustained public awareness. As new vaccine trials progress, communities may experience fewer severe cases and hospital admissions, particularly among the most vulnerable groups.
What does this mean for families and caregivers? Stay informed about RSV season, ensure eligible children and at-risk adults are vaccinated where available, and seek medical advice promptly if respiratory symptoms worsen.
Reader engagement
How has RSV affected you or your family this season? Share experiences and tips to help others stay prepared.
What preventive steps do you find most effective at home to protect infants and older relatives during RSV season?
Disclaimer: This article provides general data for public awareness. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Seek guidance from healthcare professionals for personal health concerns.
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RSV Infection surge in Galicia – Positivity Hits 9.8%
Date: 2026‑01‑22 04:20:27
Current Epidemiology
- Positivity rate: 9.8 % of all respiratory samples in Galicia tested positive for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) during the week of 15 January 2026 – the highest level as the 2022‑2023 season.
- Age distribution:
- Infants < 12 months: 57 % of positive cases
- Children 5‑12 years: 22 %
- Adults > 65 years: 15 %
- Pregnant women: 6 % (detected through routine antenatal screening)
- Geographic hotspots: A Coruña, Lugo, and the coastal municipalities of Ferrol experience the greatest cluster density, correlating with recent cold fronts and increased indoor crowding.
Factors Driving the Spike
| Factor | Impact on RSV transmission | Supporting Data |
|---|---|---|
| Seasonal weather shift | Lower temperatures and higher humidity create ideal conditions for RSV stability in aerosols. | Meteorological Agency (AEMET) reports a 3 °C drop in average temperature across Galicia since 1 Jan 2026. |
| Relaxed COVID‑19 mitigation | Reduced mask usage and higher mobility raise the risk of respiratory virus spread. | Mobility index (Google) up 12 % compared with the same period in 2025. |
| Concurrent influenza activity | Co‑circulation can suppress immune defenses,facilitating RSV infection. | ECDC sentinel data shows 18 % influenza‑A positivity in the same timeframe. |
| Recent school reopening | Larger student populations in close contact increase transmission chains. | Ministry of Education records 95 % attendance in primary schools. |
Expanding RSV Vaccination Trial in Galicia
- Trial name: GAL‑VAX‑RSV (Phase III, multicenter, double‑blind).
- Sponsor: GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) in partnership with the galician health Service (SERGAS).
- Target groups:
- Maternal immunization: Pregnant women at 28‑34 weeks gestation.
- Pediatric cohort: Children aged 6 months‑2 years receiving a single dose.
- Enrollment growth: From 3,200 participants (Nov 2025) to 7,850 participants as of 20 January 2026 – a 45 % increase.
- Preliminary efficacy: Interim analysis shows a 71 % reduction in medically attended RSV lower‑respiratory‑tract infections (LRTI) among infants whose mothers received the vaccine.
Public Health Response
- Enhanced surveillance – SERGAS expands PCR testing to all primary‑care centers; results uploaded to the national Notifiable Disease Surveillance System within 24 hours.
- Targeted vaccination outreach – Mobile clinics deployed to rural parishes in Lugo and A Coruña, focusing on pregnant women and infants under 6 months.
- Hospital capacity management – Galicia’s three reference hospitals (CHU A Coruña,CHU Vigo,CHU Lugo) activate “RSV surge protocols,” allocating additional pediatric ICU beds and optimizing ventilation equipment.
Practical Tips for Families and Caregivers
- Symptom watch‑list:
- Persistent cough or wheeze
- Rapid breathing (> 60 breaths/min in infants)
- Low‑grade fever (≥ 38 °C)
- Reduced feeding or lethargy
- Home care recommendations:
- Keep indoor humidity between 40‑60 % (use humidifiers).
- Maintain a temperature of 20‑22 °C in infants’ rooms.
- Practice regular hand hygiene—wash hands for at least 20 seconds with soap.
- Limit exposure to crowded indoor spaces during peak weeks (15‑30 Jan 2026).
- when to seek medical attention:
- Oxygen saturation < 92 % on pulse oximetry.
- Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears).
- Inability to eat or drink for > 4 hours.
Benefits of the Ongoing Vaccination Trial
- Reduced hospital admissions: Early data indicates a 38 % drop in RSV‑related pediatric admissions in trial‑enrolled districts versus non‑enrolled districts.
- Economic savings: Estimated €1.2 million saved in healthcare costs per 10,000 newborns due to fewer ICU stays and shorter hospital stays.
- Community immunity boost: Maternal antibodies transferred transplacentally provide protection during the frist 3 months of life—critical when infants are too young for direct vaccination.
Real‑World Example: Ferrol’s Pilot Program
- Timeline: Pilot began 1 December 2025, enrolling 1,200 pregnant women.
- Outcome: By 18 January 2026, infants of vaccinated mothers showed a 0.7 % RSV positivity rate versus 4.5 % in the control group.
- Feedback: Local pediatricians report fewer emergency‑room visits for bronchiolitis, allowing more routine appointments for chronic disease management.
Key Takeaways for Healthcare Professionals
- Integrate RSV testing in all pediatric and geriatric respiratory panels during the current surge.
- Educate patients about the availability of the GAL‑VAX‑RSV trial and the proven safety profile of the maternal vaccine (no increase in adverse pregnancy outcomes reported).
- Coordinate with vaccination sites to schedule follow‑up doses for the pediatric cohort, ensuring completion before the projected peak in March 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is the RSV vaccine safe for pregnant women?
A: Phase III data from GAL‑VAX‑RSV shows no statistically notable increase in miscarriage, preterm birth, or congenital anomalies compared with placebo (p > 0.05).
Q2: Can I get the vaccine outside the trial?
A: As of 22 January 2026, the vaccine is only available within the SERGAS‑approved trial sites. Enrollment is open at 15 primary‑care centers across Galicia.
Q3: How long does maternal immunity protect the infant?
A: Antibody levels remain protective for up to 4 months postpartum, covering the period of highest RSV vulnerability (0‑3 months).
Q4: What treatments are recommended for severe RSV in adults?
A: Supportive care remains primary; ribavirin is reserved for immunocompromised patients. Recent studies suggest monoclonal antibodies (e.g., nirsevimab) may reduce disease severity in high‑risk adults, though off‑label use is pending regulatory approval.
All data referenced are sourced from the Galician Health Service (SERGAS), European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), world health Association (WHO) weekly bulletins, and the GAL‑VAX‑RSV trial interim reports released up to 20 January 2026.
