Tracking Respiratory Virus Hospitalizations in Minnesota

For the past few years, the headlines have faded, the hashtags have quieted, and many of us have stopped checking daily COVID numbers.
But if you look at the data, a quieter story continues to unfold.

The Respiratory Virus Hospitalization Surveillance Network (RESP-NET) keeps track of how viruses like COVID-19, influenza, and RSV affect Minnesotans. Originally focused on the 7-county Twin Cities metro area—Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington—RESP-NET expanded statewide starting with the 2023–2024 season.

And one key shift: instead of tracking just the “cold and flu season,” RESP-NET now runs year-round. Each new respiratory season begins in October, ensuring the full annual impact is captured.

COVID-19: Quieter in Conversation, Still Loud in the Data

Even as COVID-19 coverage on news feeds has slowed down, hospitalization data tells another story. Since 2020, COVID-19 has consistently had higher hospitalization rates than either influenza or RSV.

Only in the 2024–2025 season did influenza begin to catch up, with both viruses showing comparable hospitalization rates. But “comparable” doesn’t mean gone—it means COVID remains part of Minnesota’s health landscape.

“The conversation may have moved on, but the virus hasn’t.”

The Bookends of Age: Who’s Most at Risk

Two age groups continue to stand out:

  • 65 years and older, who face the highest risk of hospitalization from COVID-19 and influenza.

  • Children under 4, who experience the highest rates of RSV hospitalizations.

These are the bookends of vulnerability — the youngest and oldest Minnesotans — reminding us why vaccinations and seasonal awareness remain critical tools for prevention.

Not All Communities Are Affected Equally

Disparities also persist across race and ethnicity.

Data show American Indian/Alaska Native and Black communities experience higher hospitalization rates from respiratory illnesses. These differences aren’t just numbers — they’re signals of deeper issues in healthcare access, prevention, and outreach.

Twin Cities vs. Greater Minnesota: A Matter of Density

The Twin Cities metro area reports higher hospitalization rates than Greater Minnesota — likely reflecting population density, healthcare proximity, and testing availability. The pattern is consistent across COVID-19, influenza, and RSV: urban concentration brings higher case visibility and spread.

Stay Healthy This Holiday Season

RESP-NET’s Minnesota data tells a familiar but important story: COVID-19 continues to lead overall, while RSV and influenza still pose real risks, especially for young children and older adults. Both age and access to care shape who gets sick — reminding us that prevention and awareness remain key.

And as we head into another holiday season filled with family gatherings, travel, and winter traditions, the message is simple: respiratory viruses haven’t taken a holiday.

So before you head out for coffee with friends or dinner with loved ones, take a few easy steps to keep everyone healthy:

  • Stay up to date on your vaccines (flu, COVID-19, and RSV if eligible)

  • Wash your hands often

  • Stay home if you’re feeling under the weather

A little prevention goes a long way in keeping Minnesota’s winter full of laughter, warmth, and togetherness — not hospital visits.

Data doesn’t just track illness; it helps us protect what matters most.
Stay safe, stay warm, and enjoy a healthy holiday season with those you care about.

Khanh Kieu