A CCTV report citing a spokesman of China’s National Health Commission (NHC) said that the latest surge of respiratory illnesses in China was caused by known pathogens.
Spokesman Hu Qiangqiang made the statement at a press conference in Beijing, citing data collected from China’s disease surveillance and hospital systems.
Hu said a teleconference with the World Health Organization (WHO) was held on Thursday with the participation of Chinese health officials and experts from the National Health Commission, the National Administration of Disease Control and Prevention, the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Center for Children’s Health.
The experts briefed the WHO on the epidemic situation of the latest wave of respiratory infectious diseases, as well as China’s efforts in pathogen monitoring, clinical diagnosis and treatment, health education, among others.
Despite the reassurances, the WHO said it is closely monitoring the situation and has officially requested more information.
Hospitals in northern China, particularly in Beijing and Liaoning province, are reportedly strained with an unprecedented number of pediatric cases.
With winter exacerbating the situation, schools in affected areas have been ordered to shut down.
The WHO advised Chinese residents to take preventive measures, including vaccination against influenza, COVID-19, and other respiratory pathogens.
Additionally, residents are urged to maintain distance from the unwell, stay home when possible, get tested, and wear masks as needed.
