China's National Health Commission says respiratory illness is causing concern

China's National Health Commission (NHC) held a press conference and issued several warnings regarding respiratory illnesses, which are entering their peak season, following reports of worrying respiratory disease outbreaks in the country.

People in Beijing wear face masks to prevent Covid-19 on February 14, 2023.

During a press conference held by China's National Health Commission (NHC) on January 5th, doctors stated that during the current peak season for respiratory infections in children, the main causative agents remain viruses and Mycoplasma pneumonia, with influenza viruses being the most common.

Experts are advising parents to keep their children home if they have the flu, according to a press conference report by the Global Times .

Children with influenza primarily exhibit fever, accompanied by headache, muscle aches, and general fatigue. In addition, respiratory symptoms such as cough, sore throat, and runny nose may also occur, according to Dr. Wang Quan of Beijing Children's Hospital.

According to Dr. Vuong, in some children, gastrointestinal symptoms may be more pronounced than in adults, manifesting as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Most children infected with the influenza virus experience an acute illness, usually with a fever lasting 2-3 days, and complete recovery within a week.

However, Dr. Wang noted that some children may experience prolonged coughing and some may experience fatigue and weakness that lasts longer than usual.

Many Chinese hospitals are overwhelmed by pneumonia cases.

According to CCTV, parents are advised that if a child is infected with the flu virus, the primary approach is treatment with antiviral and symptomatic medications. There are antiviral medications specifically for children, which should be used as soon as possible as directed by a doctor, especially within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.

Experts also emphasized that antibiotics are ineffective against the influenza virus.

According to a report released by the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention on January 2nd, from December 23rd to 29th, 2024, 99.6 percent of positive influenza virus samples detected in southern and northern provinces of China were identified as H1N1 influenza.

Experts note that while the rate of severe pneumonia due to influenza is slightly higher than in previous years, the overall incidence remains relatively low. Patients are advised to begin treatment as early as possible to ensure a timely recovery.

Developments outside of China

Meanwhile, media outlets report that many countries are closely monitoring developments in China, paying particular attention to the human pneumonia caused by metapneumoniovirus. (HMPV).

According to Newsweek magazine on January 5th, in addition to mainland China, several cases of HMPV infection have been reported in Hong Kong and Malaysia. Malaysia has not commented on the information, but the Malaysian Ministry of Health said on January 4th that it is closely monitoring the expected increase in acute respiratory infections towards the end of the year.

"The increase in acute respiratory infections at the end and beginning of the year is an expected phenomenon consistent with cases recorded in other countries, especially during the winter months such as in China," The Star reported, citing a statement from the Malaysian Ministry of Health.

In Indonesia, the health ministry reported no cases of HMPV, while reminding the public to remain vigilant, calm, and take preventive measures, according to Antara news agency.

In India, New Delhi health officials issued guidance on January 5th to address potential health risks associated with HMPV and other respiratory illnesses.

According to the recommendations, hospitals must report cases of flu-like illness and severe acute respiratory infections. They must also strictly isolate suspected cases and adhere to standard safety measures.

In addition, hospitals must have sufficient medication to treat mild cases. These measures were implemented following reports of an HMPV outbreak and an increase in respiratory illnesses in China, according to The Times of India .

In Africa, according to Times Live on January 5th, the South African government stated that it "is monitoring the outbreak of the respiratory virus that originated in China and is causing growing public concern."

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/uy-ban-y-te-quoc-gia-trung-quoc-noi-ve-benh-ho-hap-dang-gay-lo-ngai-185250106073137954.htm