The Scientific Council has warned of a possible outbreak of respiratory infections this winter

The Kovid-19 pandemic and the health measures taken to prevent it have also had an impact on the level of other infections of the respiratory tract. In cases such as improving the health condition and easing sanctions, the Scientific Council is now concerned that there may be a recurrence of seasonal viruses.

The Kovid-19 pandemic was not the only one closely monitored by the Scientific Council. According to the latest opinion released by the organization on Thursday, October 7, its members are called upon to be vigilant against other respiratory viruses.

“During SARS-CoV-2 transmission, a significant reduction in the transmission of two viruses causing seasonal infections was observed: influenza and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus),” the Scientific Council said.

The virtual absence described by implementing barrier measures (social distance, wearing a mask, hydro-alcoholic gel) to fight the Kovid-19 pandemic “can be spread by a mechanism called viral interference”, in other words it is difficult for two respiratory viruses to circulate simultaneously.

Flu pandemic begins “October or November”

The Kovid-19 pandemic now appears to be under control, especially thanks to vaccines, which scientists are warning of in the fall and other respiratory infections that can occur in the winter. Regarding influenza, the Council should consider “epidemiological aspects and aspects of vaccination” when more than 10 million people were vaccinated against influenza last year.

The Scientific Council warns that “the epidemic is likely to begin in October or November, especially if the barriers are quickly eased and international trade resumes”, depending on the nature of the virus (H3N2 or H1N1). “The current signal showing the specific transmission of virus A (H3N2) is considered a serious signal”, the Scientific Council continues, “the hypothesis of an epidemic in 2021-2022 should be considered”.

Probably the biggest RSV epidemic this year

Regarding respiratory syncytial virus, the Scientific Council noted that the 2020-2021 epidemic was “with a late onset” less than the previous season.

“So it’s necessary to assume that the size of the RSV epidemic will be larger this winter compared to the previous winter, especially if it is postponed to January or February 2022,” it recalls. Vaccination or treatment for RSV, “Therefore, communication around barrier measures is useful during RSV infection”.