A mysterious Pneumonia outbreak is pushing China to the brink of another possible health emergency while the country is still recuperating from the devastating outcomes of the deadly Covid-19 pandemic. The pneumonia outbreak has reportedly affected the schools which consequently resulted in hospitals being overwhelmed with sick children.
Global health experts have started showing concern over the mysterious outbreak.
In light of the current situation, the pediatric hospitals too have informed about a sudden surge in cases of undiagnosed pneumonia, particularly since the National Day holiday in early October.
Fortunately, despite the widespread outbreak, no casualties have been reported so far.
About the outbreak
As per media reports, the epicentres of this outbreak are Beijing and Liaoning province.
The severity of the situation has led to the suspension of classes in some schools, as both students and teachers have fallen ill.
What are the symptoms?
It has been reported that the symptoms exhibited by the affected children are high fever and lung inflammation, but no cough. The symptoms share major similarity with the symptoms of flu or respiratory virus diseases.
Medical professionals reportedly are pointing towards mycoplasma pneumoniae, a common form of bacterial infection to which children are primarily susceptible. This pathogen typically causes mild infections but can lead to more severe conditions requiring hospitalisation.
China increases surveillance
On Noveber 13, the Chinese authorities from the National Health Commission reported an unexplained surge in respiratory diseases in China.
In a bid to tackle the situation, the authorities priarily emphasised on 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.
WHO seeks information
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has made an official request to China for detailed information on an increase in respiratory illnesses and reported clusters of pneumonia in children.
"It is unclear if these are associated with the overall increase in respiratory infections previously reported by Chinese authorities or separate events," it said.
The WHO stated the Chinese authorities attributed the increase to the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions and the circulation of known pathogens such as influenza, mycoplasma pneumoniae, respiratory syncytial virus, and the virus that causes Covid-19.
