In a press conference held on November 13, 2023, the National Health Commission of China reported un increase in the incidence of respiratory diseases in China. Chinese authorities attributed this increase to the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions and the circulation of pathogens known as the flu, ‘Mycoplasma pneumoniae’ (a common bacterial infection that causes pneumonia, which generally affects younger children). , respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and SARS-CoV-2.

Weeks later, the November 21the media and ProMED reported on clusters of undiagnosed pneumonia in children in northern China. It is unclear whether these are associated with the overall increase in respiratory infections previously reported by Chinese authorities or with separate events.

Given this increase in cases, the World Health Organization (WHO) has asked the Chinese authorities detailed information about the recent increase in cases of respiratory diseases and outbreaks of childhood pneumonia, and issued preventive recommendations for the Asian country. Specifically, WHO has requested additional epidemiological and clinical information, as well as laboratory results of these groups reported among childrenos, through the mechanism of the International Health Regulations. He has also asked for more information about the recent trends in the circulation of known pathogensincluding influenza, SARS-CoV-2, RSV and ‘Mycoplasma pneumoniae’ and the current burden on healthcare systems.

Since mid-October, northern China has reported an increase in illnesses similar to flu compared to the same period of the previous three years. The WHO assures that China has systems to capture information on trends in influenza, respiratory syncytial virus and SARS-CoV-2, and reports to platforms such as the Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System.

Pending more information, the WHO advises measures to reduce similar infections to those taken during the covid-19 pandemic, such as wearing a mask, keeping distance from sick people, staying home if symptoms are noticed, washing hands frequently or taking care of good ventilation.