WHO requests information from China about increase in respiratory illnesses in children
The World Health Organization (WHO) has reached out to Chinese health officials for more information about a recent surge in respiratory illnesses among children. According to a news release from WHO, Chinese health officials reported an increase in respiratory illnesses, including clusters of pneumonia in kids earlier this month.
The increase has been attributed to the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions and the circulation of known pathogens, such as influenza, mycoplasma pneumoniae, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19. Mycoplasma pneumoniae, a common bacterial infection that typically affects younger children, has been identified as one of the contributing factors.
On November 22nd, WHO requested additional epidemiologic and clinical information, as well as laboratory results from the reported clusters among children, through the International Health Regulations mechanism. The health agency has also asked for further information about recent trends in the circulation of known pathogens and the current burden on health care systems.
In response to the surge in respiratory illnesses, China’s National Health Commission has recommended that children with mild symptoms visit primary health care institutions or general hospital pediatrics departments first, as larger hospitals may be crowded and have long waiting times.
According to Chinese state media, the average number of patients in the internal medicine department at Beijing Children’s Hospital has topped 7,000 per day, exceeding the hospital’s capacity.
WHO has also announced plans to be in contact with clinicians and scientists in China through its existing technical partnerships and networks, and has recommended Chinese officials to follow measures to reduce the risk of respiratory illness.
While seeking additional information from China, WHO is recommending that people in China follow measures to reduce the risk of respiratory illness, including recommended vaccination, keeping distance from people who are ill, staying home when ill, getting tested and medical care as needed, wearing masks as appropriate, ensuring good ventilation, and regular hand-washing.
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