11/23/2023 12:01 p.m., updated 11/23/2023 12:16 p.m
The World Health Organization (WHO) requested information from the Chinese authorities this Wednesday (November 23) about an increase in cases of pneumonia in children. According to press reports and health experts in the country, outbreaks are occurring in at least three Chinese regions, including the capital Beijing.
The number of those affected is not known, but the international press reports that Chinese hospitals are overcrowded with patients with respiratory problems, especially children and adolescents.
Those affected had a high fever and nodules in the lungs, but few had a cough, which has drawn the attention of infectious disease specialists. Coughing is one of the most classic symptoms of a respiratory infection.
What is the cause of breathing problems?
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There is still no explanation for the increase in cases of respiratory diseases in China. Authorities believe the growth is due to the greater spread of viruses that cause flu, Covid and bronchiolitis in children.
The number of people infected with the bacterium Mycoplasma pneumoniae, which causes pneumonia, has also increased. The bacteria are transmitted through contact with an infected person and often occur in places where there are large gatherings of people, such as schools, hospitals and nursing homes.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a bacterium that causes pneumonia in humans and is one of the smallest bacteria in the world. It could be responsible for the Chinese outbreak
What are the risks if pneumonia reaches other countries?
Because the exact cause of the outbreak is not yet known, it is difficult for infectious disease specialists to assess the risks outside of the affected regions.
The main suspicion is that the zeroCovid policy, which was in force in China until January this year, led to a decline in people’s immunity and now infection rates have increased because the movement of people has been allowed.
Currently, the WHO does not consider the situation to have pandemic potential and therefore has not recommended restrictions on access to the country or movement between regions.
The time is dedicated to monitoring. The international agency called for epidemiological and clinical information, laboratory results and details on trends in the spread of pathogens such as viruses and bacteria.
In its statement, the WHO urged the Chinese to take precautionary measures to contain the contagion:
- Take all recommended vaccinations;
- Stay home if you are sick;
- Wear masks when around other people.
- Wash your hands regularly.
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