British health authorities are “closely monitoring” a mysterious outbreak of respiratory diseases in China.
High numbers of undiagnosed pneumonia-like infections in children were reported earlier this week in several Chinese hospitals.
Doctors noted a rise in respiratory infections in Beijing, Liaoning and other major cities. The World Health Organization (WHO) asked the Chinese authorities for further data this week as part of an “official request”.
The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention denied reports on Thursday that hospitals had been overwhelmed and said the cases were not resulting from “unusual or novel pathogens”.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said on Friday the data indicates the surge in respiratory cases is likely attributed to Chinese society having its first winter season since coming out of a protracted lockdown.
UKHSA said the increase in respiratory diseases was caused by pathogens such as influenza, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19.
The UK experienced a similar uptick in seasonal virus infections in 2022 as a result of an immunity debt caused by several years of suppressed viral circulation which was a side-effect of Covid restrictions.
Dame Jenny Harries, the chief executive of UKHSA, said: “The WHO has received an official response from China following its request for detailed information on an increase in respiratory illnesses and reported clusters of pneumonia in children.
“We need to keep an open mind about the cause of any increased reporting of clusters of disease including of this illness in Chinese children.
“UKHSA is closely monitoring the situation and will continue to work with international partners to assess the emerging information as it becomes available.”
Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
