(Photo: REUTERS/Thomas Peter)
The World Health Organization (WHO) has formally requested China for comprehensive details regarding a surge in respiratory illnesses and clusters of pneumonia, particularly in children. This request follows a series of reports and observations of increased respiratory diseases in the region.
The WHO's call for clarity emerges amidst concerns raised by global infectious disease monitoring services and media reports highlighting an uptick in undiagnosed pneumonia cases in northern China. However, it remains uncertain whether these are connected to the broader increase in respiratory infections recently reported by Chinese authorities.
Experts have urged vigilance while noting that the current situation in China does not necessarily indicate the onset of a new global outbreak. Historically, pandemics have been preceded by undiagnosed respiratory illnesses, as witnessed with SARS and COVID-19, both initially reported as unusual pneumonia types.
China's National Health Commission, in a briefing on November 13, linked the rise in respiratory diseases to the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions and the circulation of known pathogens such as influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
WHO spokespersons stated that they are seeking additional information about the outbreaks, specifically epidemiological and clinical data, as well as laboratory results, through the International Health Regulations mechanism. As per the norms, China is expected to respond within 24 hours of the request.
The increase in respiratory diseases coincides with China preparing for its first full winter season following the lifting of stringent COVID-19 measures in December. Many countries have experienced similar upticks in respiratory illnesses after easing pandemic restrictions.
According to WHO, northern China has reported a significant rise in influenza-like illnesses since mid-October compared to the previous three years. This escalation in respiratory diseases comes amid crowded hospitals, with many children receiving treatments for respiratory issues.
The situation has prompted WHO to recommend preventive measures to the Chinese population, including vaccination, isolation when ill, mask-wearing as needed, and seeking medical care.
The WHO's public request for more detailed information from China is uncommon, typically made through internal channels. This move signifies the seriousness with which the global health body is treating the situation, given the historical context of delayed information sharing by China during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.
As the world watches closely, the response from China and the subsequent analysis by WHO will be crucial in understanding the nature and potential risks of these rising respiratory illnesses.
