This report is a summary of the results obtained from various molecular respiratory panels performed across PathCare laboratories during August 2024 (epidemiological weeks 32-35). The data is dependent on submission of samples by clinicians and therefore may not be representative of the general population but is intended to identify trends in the circulation of these viruses which may be of clinical relevance.
INFLUENZA, RESPIRATORY SYNCYTIAL VIRUS AND SARS-COV-2
- Nationally, influenza B detection rates peaked in week 32 and then declined through week 35. The provincial trends noted in July continued through August, with detection rates in the Western Cape remaining relatively low (4-6%) compared to the other provinces. In Gauteng, the percentage of samples testing positive for influenza B peaked at 36% in week 32 and dropped to 18% in week 35.
- Influenza A positivity was ≤1% throughout August, ending at 0.4% nationally in week 35.
- Overall RSV detection rates remained stable at 4-5%. In children <5 years of age, the percentage of samples positive for RSV ranged from 14-21% in 0-6 month olds, 7-15% in 6-12 month olds, and 5-7% in 1-5 year olds.
- SARS-CoV-2 detection rates remained between 9-11% during August, similar to the previous reporting period.
Respiratory Pathogen Statistics: August 2024