WHO: No unusual factors in viral pneumonia in China

The epidemic does not present any unusual elements.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), many countries in the northern hemisphere experience a seasonal increase in respiratory infections at this time of year. The main causes are respiratory pathogens such as seasonal influenza virus, RSV and other common viruses including HMPV and Mycoplasma pneumoniae.

The WHO reports that the incidence of influenza-like illnesses (ILIs) or acute respiratory infections (ARIs) has increased in recent weeks in several countries in the northern hemisphere, exceeding usual seasonal levels.

Seasonal influenza is also on the rise in several countries in Europe, Central America and the Caribbean, West Africa, Central Africa and various Asian countries, consistent with typical trends for this period of the year. ‘year.

Regarding the human pneumonia virus (HMPV) situation in China, the latest surveillance data (December 29) from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention reveals an increase in acute respiratory infections due to common agents such as such as seasonal flu virus, RSV, HMPV, etc.

Among these cases, seasonal influenza recorded the highest number of cases, in line with the usual situation at this time of year, with no reports of unusual agents.

Health agencies in China confirm that the health system is not overburdened, that hospital occupancy rates are lower than last year and that no state of emergency declaration has been made .

Chinese health authorities have issued recommendations and messages to the population on how to prevent the spread of respiratory diseases and minimize their impact.

The WHO assesses that seasonal outbreaks of respiratory pathogens typically occur during the winter months in temperate climates.

“The increase in acute respiratory infections in several countries in the northern hemisphere in recent weeks was expected at this time of year and there are no unusual factors,” WHO said.

The presence of several respiratory pathogens during winter can place an additional burden on countries’ health systems,” the Organization added.

Actively prevent winter illnesses

WHO recommends that populations in countries entering the winter season take basic preventive measures to prevent the spread and reduce the risks of respiratory diseases, especially for vulnerable groups.

In the event of mild symptoms, it is advisable to stay at home, rest and take care of your health to avoid transmitting the disease to others. Risk groups or severe cases should consult medical institutions for adequate monitoring and treatment.

It is also recommended to wear a mask in crowded and poorly ventilated places, cover your mouth when coughing and sneezing with tissues, wash your hands regularly and get vaccinated in accordance with the recommendations of health authorities.

Additionally, Member States must maintain surveillance of respiratory pathogens appropriate to their national context and not impose trade or travel restrictions linked to current trends in acute respiratory diseases.

The Ministry of Health indicated that it will continue to closely monitor the evolution of the epidemic situation both nationally and internationally to direct and guide communities and units towards appropriate and timely measures.

They are also committed to providing complete and accurate information, avoiding panic and anxiety, and conveying recommendations and messages to enable the public to grasp ways to effectively prevent diseases.