China attributes rise in pediatric respiratory illness to seasonal germs, not unusual or novel pathogens, says WHO

The World Health Organization announced that Chinese health authorities reported a recent increase in children with pneumonia or respiratory illness in the northern part of the country is due to seasonal germs rather than a new or unknown pathogen. Following a request for additional information, WHO held a teleconference with leaders from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention and the Beijing Children's Hospital to discuss the situation.

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Chinese officials reported a rise in the number of children seeking medical treatment or being admitted to hospitals due to Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia, a common infection that primarily affects younger children. This infection can be effectively treated with antibiotics.

In addition, since October, there has also been an increase in doctor visits and hospitalizations for RSV, adenovirus, and the flu, according to officials. Although some of these increases are occurring earlier than usual, the World Health Organization stated that they were "not unexpected."

After the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions in other countries, there were similar early surges in respiratory illnesses. Scientists believe that the restrictions created an "immunity gap", leaving people more susceptible to infection when precautions were abandoned. This was observed in the United States last fall, with an early surge in RSV cases among children.

In December, China's strict zero-Covid policy, which included extensive lockdowns, quarantines, mass testing, and thorough contact-tracing, came to an end.

During the teleconference on Thursday, the WHO stated that Chinese officials have reported improved monitoring of respiratory illnesses, which may be linked to the rising number of reported disease cases.

Authorities recommend that dog owners ensure that their pets are current with all necessary vaccinations, including those for canine influenza, Bordetella, and parainfluenza.

A mysterious respiratory illness is spreading among dogs, leaving veterinarians perplexed. Here's what owners can do. According to the World Health Organization, Chinese officials have reported no changes in the symptoms experienced by people, indicating that these illnesses are no different from the viral and bacterial respiratory infections typical during winter.

Despite the increase in cases, China has reported that its hospitals are managing the patient influx without being overwhelmed. The World Health Organization (WHO) has been analyzing data from Chinese surveillance systems since mid-October, when it first observed a rise in respiratory illnesses among children in northern China.

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With the increase in respiratory illnesses, the WHO is urging individuals in China to take measures to lessen the spread of infectious diseases. This includes staying home when feeling unwell, wearing a mask when necessary, and practicing proper hand hygiene.

The WHO is not advising travelers to alter their plans or take specific precautions when visiting China, except to avoid travel if they are feeling unwell. The organization stated that it will keep a close watch on the situation, maintain strong communication with Chinese authorities, and issue updates as necessary.

CNNs Katherine Dillinger contributed to this report.