China on High Alert as Respiratory Illnesses Surge: What's Causing the Rise and What Can Be Done

FILE - Commuters wearing face masks as they wait at an intersection in the central business district during the morning rush hour in Beijing, Friday, May 26, 2023. A surge in respiratory illnesses across China that has drawn the attention of the World Health Organization is caused by the flu and other known pathogens and not by a novel virus, the country's health ministry said Sunday. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, File) The Associated Press

China has raised its alert level for respiratory illnesses as the country sees a surge in cases of mycoplasma pneumoniae and influenza. The National Health Commission (NHC) has urged the public to take precautions to protect themselves from infection, including practicing good hand hygiene, wearing masks in crowded places, and avoiding close contact with sick people.

Mycoplasma pneumoniae, a type of bacteria that can cause pneumonia, is the most common cause of the current surge in respiratory illnesses in China. The NHC has reported that the number of mycoplasma pneumoniae cases has increased by more than 50% in recent weeks.

Influenza is also circulating in China, and the NHC has warned that the number of cases is expected to increase as the flu season gets underway.

The surge in respiratory illnesses has raised concerns among some people about the possibility of a new COVID-19 outbreak. However, the NHC has said that there is no evidence of a new COVID-19 wave in China.

Here are some tips to prevent respiratory illnesses:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid close contact with sick people.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Dispose of used tissues properly.
• Wear a mask in crowded places.
• Get vaccinated against influenza.

If you develop symptoms of a respiratory illness, such as fever, cough, sore throat, or runny nose, see a doctor right away.

The Chinese government is taking steps to address the surge in respiratory illnesses. The NHC has increased surveillance of respiratory illnesses and is working to ensure that hospitals have enough beds and supplies to treat patients.

The NHC is also working to raise public awareness of respiratory illnesses and how to prevent them. The NHC has released a public education campaign that includes information about how to wash hands properly, how to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and how to dispose of used tissues properly.

The surge in respiratory illnesses is a reminder that it is important to take steps to protect yourself from infection. By following the tips listed above, you can help to prevent respiratory illnesses and stay healthy.