COVID-19 and RSV drove severe outcomes during 2024–25 respiratory virus season

CDC surveillance from July 2024 to June 2025 shows substantial disease burden from COVID‑19 and RSV, particularly in infants and adults ≥65 years. COVID‑19 accounted for an estimated 290,000–450,000 hospitalizations and 34,000–53,000 deaths, while RSV caused 190,000–350,000 hospitalizations and 10,000–23,000 deaths. SARS‑CoV‑2 activity displayed bimodal peaks, and all sequenced viruses were JN.1 descendants, marking the first season without a variant replacement. RSV and influenza exhibited single seasonal peaks. Highest COVID‑19 hospitalization rates occurred in adults ≥75 years, followed by infants <6 months.

Clinical takeaway: Encourage patients—especially infants, older adults, and those with comorbidities—to stay up to date with COVID‑19, RSV, and influenza vaccinations to reduce the risk of severe disease.

Source:

Silk BJ, et al. (2026, February 19). MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. Respiratory Virus Activity - United States, July 1, 2024-June 30, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/75/wr/mm7506a2.htm