Bronchiolitis returns with a moderate increase in hospital visits, particularly in Île-de-France and Martinique, prompting health officials to monitor the situation closely.
Bronchiolitis returns in autumn
As every autumn, bronchiolitis gradually returns. In its bulletin published on October 28, 2026, which covers the week of October 19 to 25, Santé publique France reports a "moderate increase in hospital emergency visits for bronchiolitis."Epidemic signs in two regions
For now, the indicators remain at their baseline level in most regions, but the first signs of an epidemic resurgence are evident. Two territories are now in a pre-epidemic phase: Île-de-France and Martinique.Emergency visits rise in Île-de-France
This development requires close monitoring, as bronchiolitis primarily affects children under two years of age. In Île-de-France, emergency visits have increased by 24.5 percent.Numbers of affected children
The Île-de-France figures illustrate this progression. During the week of October 19 to 25, 346 children under two years of age were taken to emergency departments for bronchiolitis in Île-de-France. This is 24.5 percent more than the previous week.Hospitalizations also increase
Of these, 80 were subsequently hospitalized. Among infants under one year of age, who make up the vast majority of emergency visits, 329 emergency consultations were recorded, representing a 23.2 percent increase in one week.RSV virus detected
Hospitalizations following emergency visits have also slightly increased. Santé publique France also notes a slight increase in the detection of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in hospitals in Île-de-France. RSV is the main virus responsible for bronchiolitis in infants.Prevention strategies available
How can babies be protected from severe forms of bronchiolitis? Bronchiolitis is generally benign, but it can lead to severe cases and require hospitalization, especially in the youngest infants.Vaccination and treatment options
For the 2026-2027 season, the RSV infection prevention campaign began on September 14 in Metropolitan France. Two strategies can be proposed to protect infants from severe forms: vaccinating pregnant women with Abrysvo between 32 and 36 weeks of amenorrhea, or administering a monoclonal antibody such as Beyfortus to the baby.Preventive daily practices
Several treatments are now available depending on the child's condition and current recommendations. Daily practices remain essential to reduce the risk of transmission: washing hands before handling a baby, regularly ventilating rooms, avoiding contact with sick people as much as possible, and wearing a mask when in the presence of an infant if one has respiratory symptoms.
