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RKI Reports RSV Uptick in Germany as Insurer Urges Infant Prophylaxis

Officials emphasize season-long infant protection with Nirsevimab, which statutory insurance covers.

Overview

  • RKI’s week 6 report shows RSV detections rising to 13% of tested viruses from 5% the previous week, with wastewater RSV loads increasing.
  • Overall respiratory illness activity remains seasonally high while hospital-treated severe cases declined modestly in the latest data.
  • STIKO recommends a single Nirsevimab dose for all infants in their first RSV season, providing protection through March and reimbursed for statutory insured patients.
  • RSV vaccination is advised for people 75 and older and for those aged 60–74 with serious underlying conditions, with infants and older adults at highest risk of severe outcomes.
  • Health insurer IKK Südwest recorded about 700 infant RSV cases in 2024 across Saarland, Rhineland-Palatinate and Hesse and urges prophylaxis, noting some cases require ventilation and advising infected individuals to avoid community settings until symptoms subside.