The data indicate a higher rate of mortality and higher hospital costs.
A study at the Matosinhos Hospital concluded that the Respiratory Sincient Virus (VSR), known for causing babies bronchiolitis, may have a more severe impact than flu on adults.
Between April 2018 and March 2024, the study that analyzed cases of acute respiratory infections in hospitalized adults compared the effects of VSR and flu virus (influenza). Despite the lower prevalence of VSR, The hospital mortality rate was 20%, greater than 13% registered with influenza patients.
“Direct costs for hospitalization for patients with VSR were 4,757 euros. In influenza admitted patients this value was 3,537 euros.” indicated the study to which Lusa had access.
The patients infected with VSR presented a Higher risk of serious complicationsincluding respiratory failure, cardiovascular events and secondary bacterial infections.
“Without a doubt, the greatest use of health resources, along with increased mortality, is an extremely important indicator of the greater severity of patients with VSR,” said Filipe Froes, a pulmonologist and author of the study.
More than 80% of VSR cases occurred in people over 60with a slightly higher predominance in women (58.6%) and a median age higher than that of influenza patients (79 years old against 77 years).
Vaccination and Prevention
The Directorate-General for Health has already implemented preventive measures against VSR. The vaccine for babies born between August 2024 and March 2025 was free.
The impact of immunization was already reflected in the last winterwith a two -thirds reduction of cases at Dona Estefânia Hospital and a drop in intensive care at Santa Maria Hospital, from 40 to only five babies.
The Respiratory Sincient Virus transmitted by the introduction of the virus through the nose, eyes or mouth after contact with contaminated secretions or objects.
