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Respiratory illnesses are on the decline across Pennsylvania, according to recent reports from the Pennsylvania Department of Health. Both influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases are decreasing rapidly, while COVID-19 cases are seeing a slight decline. Since September, Pennsylvania has recorded 488 flu-related deaths and 515 COVID-related deaths.
The Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania noted that influenza now ranks as the top-spreading winter virus in the state, surpassing COVID-19 in hospital admissions. The flu accounted for 1.5 times more hospital admissions than COVID-19 this year. A virologist explained that while the numbers of influenza and SARS-CoV-2 are close, influenza remains a significant health concern.
In Chester County, the Health Department's surveillance report shows a significant decrease in both influenza and RSV cases. Influenza cases in the county dropped by 61% from the previous week, while RSV cases decreased by 40%. Statewide, influenza cases fell by 26% in the same period.
As the respiratory illness season, which began in October 2025, nears its end in May 2026, health officials continue to monitor the situation. They emphasize the importance of vaccination and preventive measures to protect against these viruses.