China Mysterious Pneumonia outbreak: The World Health Organisation has sought more details from China after reports of a sudden spike of respiratory disease among the children since mid-October. The mysterious outbreak has affected the Northern part of China with mostly children being worst-affected.
In the official statement by WHO, the organisation requested the government for further information regarding the increased cases among children. It also stressed the need for strict surveillance in the State, “Authorities stressed the need for enhanced disease surveillance in healthcare facilities and community settings, as well as strengthening the capacity of the health system to manage patients.”
On November 13, the Chinese authorities reported an increase in incidence of respiratory diseases in China in a press conference. According to the authorities the spike was seen as soon as COVID-19 restrictions were lifted in the State. Additionally, it reported the circulation of known pathogens such as influenza, mycoplasma pneumoniae (a common bacterial infection which typically affects younger children), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19).
The media and public disease surveillance system ProMED reported clusters of undetected pneumonia in youngsters in northern China on November 21. The WHO stated that it was unclear whether ProMED’s claim was related to the officials’ news conference and that it was seeking clarity.
In an effort by WHO, the organisation is already in contact with clinicians and scientists through their existing technical partnerships and networks in China as in the past, China’s inability to limit COVID-19 transmission had caused major problems to the world. Through the International Health Regulations system, WHO sought more epidemiologic and clinical information, as well as laboratory results, from these reported clusters among children on November 22.
The WHO has encouraged people in impacted areas to take cautious steps in response to the epidemic. Practice excellent hygiene, seek medical assistance for respiratory problems, and be informed about the issue are all examples.