Situation in Iceland

The Chief Epidemiologist’s respiratory infection dashboard has been updated with data through week 47 (November 18–24, 2024).

Cases of RS Virus (RSV) continue to rise, with 28 individuals diagnosed in week 47, the majority being children aged 2 years or younger. Seven people were in hospital with RSV, including three children under 2 years old and four individuals aged 65 years or older.

Three cases of influenza were reported in week 47, all type A(H3) and among those aged 15–64 years. One person was in hospital with influenza.

Six cases of COVID-19 were identified, half of whom were 65 or older. Three individuals were in hospital with COVID-19 during this period.

About half of those diagnosed with respiratory viral infections, excluding COVID-19, influenza, or RSV, were found to have rhinovirus (common cold). The number of respiratory samples tested has remained stable in recent weeks, with the positivity rate continuing to climb, reaching 39% in week 47.

At the beginning of 2024, an increase in respiratory infections caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae was noted. This bacterium often causes bronchitis and occasionally pneumonia. While Mycoplasma infections are not subject to mandatory reporting, the dashboard now includes data on clinical diagnoses. Weekly cases remain notably higher compared to recent winters. Seven individuals have been in hospital with confirmed Mycoplasma infections in November. Unlike viral infections like influenza and RSV, Mycoplasma outbreaks occur sporadically, every few years, and do not follow seasonal patterns. Further updates on Mycoplasma have been detailed on the Directorate of Health’s website and in EPI-ICE (Icelandic).

After a surge earlier this year, pertussis (Whooping Cough) cases have declined in recent weeks. Pertussis outbreaks tend to occur every 3–5 years. This serious respiratory infection is especially dangerous for infants, but vaccination is an effective way to prevent severe illness. Information on confirmed pertussis cases is now included in the dashboard. While no hospitalizations for pertussis have been reported this year, there have been some visits to emergency departments. Further updates on pertussis have been detailed on the Directorate of Health’s website and in EPI-ICE (Icelandic).

Situation in Europe

The RSV epidemic has begun in EU/EEA countries, similar to Iceland, with young children under 5 years being the most affected group.

COVID-19 cases continue to decline after a summer surge, with current levels comparable to or lower than the same time last year. However, variations exist between countries. Individuals aged 65 years and older remain at the highest risk of severe illness.

Overall influenza activity remains low, though some countries have reported increases.
More details are available on the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) website.

Prevention

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent severe illness caused by respiratory infections. Autumn vaccination campaigns for COVID-19 and influenza are underway, and individuals aged 60 years and older, as well as those in other risk groups, are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated, as they are at the greatest risk of severe illness.

General hygiene measures are also important—more information is available on the Directorate of Health’s website.

The Chief Epidemiologist