W.H.O. Asks China for Details on Surge of Respiratory Illness in Children

The World Health Organization (WHO) has formally asked detailed information from China regarding a surge in respiratory illnesses and the emergence of pneumonia clusters among children in the country. The National Health Commission of China disclosed a rise in respiratory diseases during a press conference on November 13, attributing the increase to the easing of COVID restrictions and the circulation of familiar pathogens like influenza, mycoplasma pneumonia, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SARS-CoV-2 (the virus responsible for COVID-19), as per a statement released by the WHO.

Emphasizing the importance of heightened disease surveillance in both healthcare facilities and communities, Chinese authorities stressed the need to strengthen the health system capacity to manage affected patients. On November 21, media and ProMED reported clusters of undiagnosed pneumonia cases in children in northern China. It remains unclear whether these cases are linked to the overall surge in respiratory infections reported earlier by Chinese authorities or if they represent distinct events.

On November 22, the WHO, through the International Health Regulations mechanism, requested additional epidemiological and clinical data, along with laboratory results, regarding these reported clusters among children. The WHO also sought more information about recent trends in the prevalence of known pathogens, including influenza, SARS-CoV-2, RSV, and mycoplasma pneumoniae, as well as the current strain on healthcare systems.

The organization is actively engaged with clinicians and scientists in China through existing technical partnerships and networks, according to the released statement. Since mid-October, northern China has witnessed an increase in influenza-like illness compared to the same period in the preceding three years. China has established systems to collect data on influenza, influenza-like illnesses, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2, reporting to platforms like the Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System.

In response to the situation, the WHO has recommended that individuals in China adhere to measures aimed at reducing the risk of respiratory illness. These measures include getting recommended vaccinations, maintaining a safe distance from individuals who are unwell, staying at home when feeling unwell, seeking testing and medical care as needed, wearing masks when appropriate, ensuring good ventilation, and practicing regular hand-washing. The WHO pledges to continue providing updates on the situation.