WHO Requests Detailed Information on Spike in Respiratory Illnesses in Chinese Children, China

The World Health Organization (WHO) has requested detailed information from China regarding a concerning surge in respiratory illnesses and outbreaks of pneumonia among children. The increase in respiratory diseases has been attributed by Chinese authorities to the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions and the spread of the flu and other respiratory viruses. The WHO cited media reports and a global infectious disease monitoring service, which reported clusters of undiagnosed pneumonia in children in northern China. However, it remains uncertain whether these clusters are linked to the rise in respiratory infections reported by Chinese authorities. Scientists outside of China have urged monitoring of the situation but do not believe this surge is indicative of a new global outbreak. The WHO has advised people in China to adhere to measures such as vaccination, maintaining distance from sick individuals, staying home when ill, and wearing masks when appropriate. Meanwhile, China’s National Health Commission has suggested that children with mild symptoms visit primary healthcare institutions or pediatrics departments of general hospitals instead of crowded large hospitals. The commission is closely monitoring the high incidence of infectious diseases among children and is working to enhance coordinated scheduling and implement a tiered diagnosis and treatment system.