Health
Influenza surge strains hospitals in western Switzerland
Western Swiss hospitals are seeing markedly increased flu‑like admissions due to a severe influenza season, with A(H3N2) and A(H1N1) subtypes dominating and RSV still circulating.
Health authorities in western Switzerland report that hospitals are experiencing a notable rise in patients with flu‑like respiratory infections, driven by a strong influenza season. The dominant circulating strains are influenza A(H3N2) and A(H1N1)pdm09, with a new subclade of H3N2 augmenting national surveillance data. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) continues to circulate but at lower levels than flu. Outpatient consultations for acute respiratory infections are above baseline, particularly in cantons along Lake Geneva, and intensive‑care units are adjusting staffing to manage inflows. The Federal Office of Public Health has reiterated vaccination recommendations and reinforced hygiene measures to limit spread in schools and care homes.
- Status
- active
- Location
- Western Switzerland including Geneva, Vaud, and Valais
- Date added
- 2026-03-23 01:32 UTC
- Last updated
- 2026-03-23 01:32 UTC
- Connected threats
- Not provided