China is grappling with a significant outbreak of pneumonia among children, prompting global attention.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has acknowledged the surge in respiratory illnesses, particularly among the children, raising concerns both domestically and internationally.
Reportedly, the surge in outbreaks has filled certain hospitals in northern China, including Beijing.
The country’s Health authorities are urging the public to seek medical attention for children with milder symptoms at clinics and alternative facilities.
While the WHO has acknowledged the unusually rise in such illnesses during this time of year, it also stressed that winter often brings an increase in such diseases.
China has told the WHO that the rise in the people going to clinics and hospitals in the country is because of known germs such as mycoplasma pneumoniae, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus, and influenza.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae, a bacterial infection with symptoms resembling the common cold, can sometimes lead to more severe conditions requiring antibiotics.
The concern arises as China reports a high incidence of antibiotic-resistant mycoplasma pneumoniae. Both SARS and COVID-19 were initially identified as unusual forms of pneumonia.
The WHO has advised basic precautions, including wearing of masks, staying home when sick, and regular handwashing, stressing that there is no immediate need to impose travel restrictions.
India’s Union Health Ministry is closely monitoring the situation and has indicated a low risk to India from both the avian influenza and the clusters of respiratory illness.
In response to a human case of H9N2 avian influenza in China, India recognises the necessity for strengthened surveillance and coordination.
Northern China has witnessed an uptick in influenza-like illnesses since mid-October, surpassing the numbers from the past three years.
Chinese authorities attribute this increase to the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions and the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).
