Reports Show Surge in Respiratory Diseases

Reports from global health authorities warn of a surge in respiratory diseases, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere, as common seasonal viruses such as influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and human metapneumovirus (hMPV) circulate at elevated levels. According to a WHO advisory, current case rates for acute respiratory infections (ARI) in some countries are above baseline, though the agency notes that this rise lies within the range expected for typical seasonal patterns.
In Kenya, the Ministry of Health has also flagged a worrying increase in respiratory illnesses. Acting Director-General for Health, Dr. Patrick Amoth, confirmed that influenza infections are on the rise, and urged Kenyans to take preventive measures — including maintaining good respiratory hygiene, getting vaccinated against the flu, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals. While the surge has led to heightened public concern, Dr. Amoth stressed that none of the increases have been tied to COVID-19, nor have they resulted in unusually high hospitalizations or deaths.
Meanwhile, a new WHO and European Respiratory Society report warns that chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) — such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) — are vastly underdiagnosed across the WHO European Region. The report, released on June 12, 2025, estimates that more than 81 million people have CRDs in the region, many of whom lack access to proper diagnostic tools like spirometry.The underdiagnosis and poor management of these conditions are contributing to a substantial, yet hidden, burden on health systems.
Experts say the current situation highlights the urgency of reinforcing respiratory disease surveillance and public health infrastructure. They recommend stronger investment in early detection (especially for chronic conditions), expanding influenza vaccination coverage, and anchoring respiratory pathogen detection within routine health services.