China prepares for winter as flu cases rise, COVID-19 cases fall

Beijing, November 14 (EFE) – China has reported a sharp increase in respiratory illnesses this winter, with a significant increase in cases of mycoplasma pneumonia and seasonal influenza, although covid-19 cases have declined in recent days.

The Asian giant is in the process of transitioning to winter, so health authorities urged “intensified monitoring” at a press conference on Monday, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children under five and those who are immunocompromised, state newspaper ” China Daily reported today.

According to China’s National Health Commission, there has been an increase in mycoplasma pneumonia, which mainly affects children aged five and older.

The disease occurs regionally every three to seven years, spreading rapidly in settings such as daycares and schools.

“This year, the disease has also appeared in children under three years old, but compared with previous years, their condition is not more serious.” said Tong Zhaohui, director of the Beijing Institute of Respiratory Diseases.

Regarding seasonal influenza, health authorities have observed an increase in activity, with H3N2 being the predominant strain.

The agency said flu season typically runs from October to March, peaking in January, underscoring the importance of vaccinations in preventing serious infections and reducing deaths.

China has implemented regulations to facilitate influenza vaccination, and vaccine supply has increased compared with the previous year.

Tong noted that the increased activity of these pathogens and other viruses is not unexpected.

“During the Covid-19 pandemic, the spread of acute respiratory diseases appears to be less severe due to strict personal protective measures,” the expert said.

“As virus containment measures are relaxed, it is normal for the spread of these diseases to return to pre-pandemic conditions,” Tong added.

Despite the decrease in positive coronavirus cases, 209 serious cases and 24 related deaths were reported in October.Effie

GBM/vec/rrt