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.
Recommendations for the early detection of human cases of Avian Influenza A(H5N1)
Caribbean countries strengthen pandemic preparedness through virtual learning series
The implementation of the PAHOMoMo project for monitoring excess mortality associated with respiratory diseases in the countries of the Americas is progressing
Guatemala strengthens its analytical capabilities for public health emergencies through specialized training in R software
Countries of the Americas strengthen intersectoral genomic surveillance for zoonotic influenza
Cuba prepares to update its National Vaccination Plan for pandemic influenza and other respiratory viruses with pandemic potential
Dominican Republic strengthens its preparedness for pandemics with national simulation exercise
SARInet plus Laboratory Regional Meeting 2025: PAHO and laboratories in the Americas reaffirm regional cooperation in respiratory virus surveillance
