In a recent development, the World Health Organization (WHO) has officially requested detailed information from China regarding the surge in respiratory illnesses and clusters of pneumonia in children. Chinese authorities had earlier attributed the rise to the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions and the circulation of pathogens like influenza, mycoplasma pneumoniae, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SARS-CoV-2.
Reported on November 21, media and ProMED highlighted undiagnosed pneumonia clusters in northern China, raising concerns about their connection to the previously reported respiratory infections. On November 22, WHO called for additional epidemiologic, clinical, and laboratory data through the International Health Regulations mechanism to assess the situation.
As northern China reports an upswing in influenza-like illnesses since mid-October, WHO emphasizes preventive measures, including vaccination, maintaining distance from the ill, staying home when sick, testing when necessary, mask-wearing, ensuring good ventilation, and regular hand hygiene. Updates will follow as WHO continues to monitor the situation closely.
