RSV Rising in Saskatchewan: CRISP Report Highlights Shifts in Respiratory Illness (2026)

RSV on the Rise, Influenza in Decline: CRISP Report Highlights Shifting Respiratory Trends

The latest Community Respiratory Illness Surveillance Program (CRISP) report reveals a shift in respiratory illness trends in Saskatchewan. Over the past four weeks, influenza activity has decreased, COVID-19 cases have remained stable, and RSV cases have increased.

Here's a breakdown of the key findings:

• Influenza: Test positivity is at 4.3%, with a significant proportion (32.6%) of cases occurring in individuals under 20 years old. This data suggests that younger populations may be more susceptible to influenza during this period.
• COVID-19: Test positivity stands at 6.3%, with a higher prevalence in adults aged 20 to 64 (54.7%). This age group likely faces different risk factors and exposure patterns compared to younger individuals.
• RSV: Test positivity has risen to 12%, with a notable share (44.9%) of cases occurring in children under 5. This highlights the vulnerability of young children to RSV during this time.

The report also highlights outbreaks associated with these viruses:

• 15 respiratory virus outbreaks were reported in high-risk settings.
• COVID-19 caused 5 outbreaks, Influenza A caused 1, RSV caused 2, and other respiratory viruses caused 7.

Hospitalization and ICU admission trends show:

• A decrease in COVID-19 and influenza-related hospitalizations and ICU admissions.
• An increase in RSV-related admissions, indicating a more severe impact on those infected.

The report also mentions:

• No influenza-associated deaths were reported in the last two weeks.
• One COVID-19 death was reported during the same period.

Vaccination coverage statistics are as follows:

• Around 22% of Saskatchewan residents are vaccinated against influenza.
• Approximately 14% are vaccinated against COVID-19.

For those interested in getting vaccinated, the report encourages residents to visit 4flu.ca for more information.