About SARInet plus
The Severe Acute Respiratory Infections network (SARInet plus) is a regional collaboration of professionals within hospitals, laboratories, and associated organizations who participate in SARI surveillance in the Americas. SARInet plus consists of diverse individuals, countries, and organizations that are involved with SARI surveillance. Each plays an important role in helping to improve the SARInet collaboration and enhance understanding of the epidemiology of influenza and other respiratory viruses (ORV)
Regional cooperation
We bring together laboratories, hospitals, and public health authorities in the Americas to strengthen surveillance of severe respiratory infections.
Technical coordination and working groups
We bring Working groups collaborate to define priorities, share best practices, and strengthen regional capacities.
Community
Through the SARInet Plus community, professionals collaborate, exchange experiences, and access resources to improve the health response in the region.
About Respiratory Viruses
Respiratory infections caused by viruses such as influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) pose a significant threat to public health in the Americas. These viruses affect the respiratory system and can cause symptoms ranging from mild to severe illness, especially in vulnerable populations such as young children, older adults, and people with chronic diseases.
Influenza
Influenza is an acute viral infection that affects the respiratory system. It is caused by type A and B viruses, which circulate seasonally throughout the world. Influenza can cause mild to severe illness, especially in young children, older adults, and people with chronic medical conditions. Influenza surveillance is key to detecting outbreaks and preparing public health responses.
SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)
SARS-CoV-2 is the coronavirus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, declared in 2020. It mainly affects the respiratory system and can cause anything from mild infections to severe illness or death. Over time, multiple variants have emerged, making genomic surveillance essential. Although it is no longer considered an international emergency, it remains an active threat to public health.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
RSV is a common virus that affects people of all ages, but poses a greater risk to infants, young children, and older adults. It is a major cause of lower respiratory infections, such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia. Although it usually circulates seasonally, its behavior can change depending on environmental and epidemiological factors.
Technical guidance for an integrated approach to routine surveillance of respiratory viruses in the Americas (Interim version)
SARInet plus Community Newsletter (April-June 2026)
Recommendations for the early detection of human cases of avian influenza A(H5N1)
PAHO and CARPHA convene 10 Caribbean countries and territories to align respiratory virus surveillance in the region
PAHO/WHO promotes analysis of the economic burden of respiratory viruses and the impact of vaccination in Panama
Chile implements respiratory virus forecasting with support from PAHO, CDC, and Northern Arizona University
Uruguay is promoting national preparedness for zoonotic avian influenza from a One Health approach
Countries in the Americas make progress in the prevention and control of hospital-acquired infections and the management of critically ill respiratory patients through regional workshops
