The World Health Organization (WHO) has asked China to provide information on the rise in respiratory illnesses among children.
in Thursday Chinese health authorities have reported an increase in respiratory illnesses and an outbreak of cluster pneumonia in children earlier this month, health authorities said, according to a news release.
Health officials attribute this increase to the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions and the spread of known pathogens, including influenza, mycoplasma pneumonia, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19. thinking.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a common bacterial infection that usually affects younger children, according to a news release.
“On November 22, WHO requested additional epidemiological and clinical information, as well as laboratory results regarding the reported pediatric cluster, through the International Health Regulations mechanism,” the health agency said in a news release. “We are also seeking further information about recent trends in the prevalence of known pathogens, including influenza, SARS-CoV-2, RSV, and Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and the current burden on our health care systems.”
According to the Associated Press, China’s National Health Commission said Thursday that children with mild symptoms should first visit a primary care facility or pediatric department at a general hospital because large hospitals can be crowded and wait times can be long. said it should.
According to Chinese state media, the number of patients in Beijing Children’s Hospital’s internal medicine department is averaging more than 7,000 per day, exceeding the hospital’s capacity.
WHO also said it will continue to liaise with clinicians and scientists through existing technical partnerships and networks in China, and recommended that Chinese authorities take steps to reduce the risk of respiratory diseases.
“While WHO is requesting this additional information, we encourage people in China to follow measures to reduce the risk of respiratory illness, including vaccination recommendations. Stay away from people who are sick. “Stay home when you are sick. Get tested and treated if needed. Wear a mask if needed. Ensure good ventilation. And wash your hands regularly,” the news release states. . “WHO will continue to provide updated information.”
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