Andorra Sees Surge in ARI and Influenza Cases to Record Highs

Acute respiratory infections (ARI) and influenza cases rose further in Andorra during the week of 15 to 21 December 2025, pushing ARI incidence above 500 cases per 100,000 inhabitants and solidifying influenza in high-incidence levels, according to the latest Health Ministry surveillance report.

ARI rates reached 514.88 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, up slightly from 477.08 the prior week and well above 398.35 two weeks earlier. Children aged 0-4 years bore the brunt, followed by those aged 5-14. Influenza incidence hit 266.67 cases per 100,000, climbing from 208.96 the previous week and entering high-incidence territory for the first time this season, again with the heaviest toll on under-5s.

Among positive samples, influenza A dominated at 77.61%, followed by rhinovirus/enterovirus at 11.94%, SARS-CoV-2 at 4.48%, and both respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and adenovirus at 1.49% each. The overall positivity rate held steady at 16.26%, down marginally from 17.12% last week, with influenza now driving about three-quarters of confirmed respiratory cases.

Epidemiological indicators suggest the country nears the peak of this wave, yet healthcare pressure remains elevated, especially in pediatric care. The Health Ministry urges standard precautions like hand hygiene and space ventilation amid sustained virus circulation.

Similar trends span Europe, where roughly half of countries report ARI above baseline, signaling widespread transmission. Influenza activity ranges from low to moderate but is increasing, SARS-CoV-2 cases decline across ages, and RSV infections rise gradually from low levels.