The World Health Organization (WHO) has requested more information from China regarding a respiratory illness outbreak in northern China. The WHO is urging Chinese authorities to take precautions to reduce the risk of infection. Since mid-October, there has been an increase in “influenza-like illness” in northern China compared to previous years, according to the WHO.
In a statement, the WHO stated that they have officially asked China for detailed information on the increase in respiratory illnesses and clusters of pneumonia in children. The National Health Commission (NHC) in Beijing attributed the spike in respiratory illnesses to the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions and the circulation of known pathogens, including influenza and common bacterial infections that affect children.
Wang Quanyi, deputy director and chief epidemiological expert at the Beijing Center for Disease Control and Prevention, stated that Beijing is currently experiencing a high incidence season of respiratory infectious diseases. He added that there is a trend of multiple pathogens coexisting in the city.
On November 21, clusters of undiagnosed pneumonia in children in northern China were reported by the media and public disease surveillance system ProMED. The WHO has requested additional information on the circulation of known pathogens, overcrowding in the health system, and recent trends.
While waiting for China’s response, the WHO is urging people to take preventative measures such as getting vaccinated, maintaining distance from sick individuals, and wearing masks. The Chinese capital is currently facing a cold snap with temperatures expected to drop below zero.
The WHO did not disclose China’s response to their request for information. The Chinese foreign ministry has not commented on the issue. It is worth noting that the WHO has previously criticized Chinese authorities for their lack of transparency and cooperation during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The origins of Covid-19 continue to be a topic of debate, with scientists divided between two main theories. The theories include an escape from a laboratory in Wuhan where such viruses were being studied, and transmission from an intermediate animal at a local market. The WHO has stressed the importance of uncovering the truth behind the origins of Covid-19 to prevent future pandemics.
Note: This article has been published from a syndicated feed and has not been edited by NDTV staff, except for the headline.
