Overview
- The RKI dates the RSV wave to the week of 5 January, with wastewater loads rising to about 11,100 genome copies per liter and most detections in children aged 0–4.
- Influenza now accounts for the majority of respiratory infections, propelled by H3N2 Subclade K, as hospitalizations climb in schoolchildren and states report surges such as 1,366 new flu cases in Thuringia last week.
- Early analyses indicate the current flu vaccine offers moderate effectiveness and continues to reduce severe illness, with STIKO recommendations unchanged for seniors and people with chronic conditions.
- Primary-care demand is heavy but hospitals largely report manageable pressure; in Hesse, the Hospital zum Heiligen Geist is continuing newborn RSV prophylaxis despite unresolved insurer reimbursement.
- Rapid home combo tests for RSV have limited sensitivity—positive results are usually accurate, but negatives may miss infections, so PCR or clinical judgment can be necessary.