COVID-19 is in retreat: autumn virus dynamics in Luxembourg

The weekly report from the Luxembourg Directorate of Health shows that the acute respiratory infection season is so far progressing smoothly. The main news is the marked decrease in COVID-19 incidence: 97 cases were reported in the 44th week of the year (27 October - 2 November 2025) compared to 156 a week earlier, a 38% drop.

These findings are supported by the results of wastewater monitoring, where SARS-CoV-2 virus concentrations also decreased - a reliable indicator that the virus is circulating less frequently.

According to the latest results of genetic sequencing, the XFG variant (49.2%) and its sub-variant XFG.3 (33.5%), which were predominant back in September, are dominant. This indicates stable circulation of the same strains without the emergence of new, more aggressive lines.

In parallel, there is a slight decrease in flu activity. Laboratories reported 24 cases compared to 33 a week earlier. All typed samples are 100 per cent influenza A virus - typical for the early phase of the season.

Medics note that so far the rate of infections remains low, but November is usually the point of onset, especially among children and the elderly. Doctors recommend not to postpone vaccination to face winter with immune defence.

In contrast to COVID-19 and influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) has slightly strengthened its position with 35 confirmed cases compared to 24 a week earlier. However, the numbers are still low and the situation is far from epidemic.

RSV is traditionally active during the cold months and is particularly dangerous for infants and the elderly. Therefore, experts remind about the importance of hygiene and early treatment at the first symptoms.