A surge of influenza-like illnesses among children in China has prompted the World Health Organization (WHO) to seek more information from the country. Chinese hospitals are reportedly overwhelmed with sick children exhibiting respiratory symptoms. The National Health Commission attributed this increase to the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions.
The WHO has requested detailed data on the circulation of known pathogens, including influenza, SARS-CoV-2, RSV, and Mycoplasma pneumonia, as well as information on healthcare system overcrowding.
ProMed, a global infectious disease surveillance system, issued an alert regarding the “undiagnosed pneumonia” in children. FTV News reported that hospitals in Beijing and Liaoning are struggling with an influx of pneumonia-stricken children.
The outbreak’s widespread nature, spanning 800 kilometers between Beijing and Liaoning, suggests it’s not a localized event. Sick children reportedly lack cough symptoms but present with high fever and pulmonary nodules.
The ProMed alert described Dalian Children’s Hospital packed with sick children receiving intravenous drips, with queues at traditional Chinese medicine hospitals and central hospitals. A Dalian Central Hospital staff member reported two-hour wait times and the absence of general outpatient clinics.
School closures have been implemented due to infections among teachers. The outbreak’s onset remains unclear.
The ProMed note highlighted the widespread nature of the undiagnosed respiratory illness and the unusual rapidity with which it has affected so many children.
Epidemiologist Eric-Feigl-Dingh compiled videos and messages from locals in a Twitter thread, breaking down the situation.
A China Daily report acknowledged Beijing’s entry into the peak respiratory infection season but did not mention any mysterious outbreak.
Experts emphasize the need for more information to assess whether this is a new outbreak, walking pneumonia, or a surge in respiratory diseases due to China’s first winter without stringent COVID-19 lockdowns.