Monitoring efforts and updates
“We will continue to monitor the situation closely, validate the information, and update accordingly,” sources from the health ministry stated. While reports of an HMPV outbreak in China remain unverified, Indian authorities are reportedly in touch with international agencies, including the World Health Organisation (WHO), for updates.
Data from the WHO’s Western Pacific Region Office (WPRO) for December 16-22 indicates a rise in acute respiratory infections in China. These include seasonal influenza, rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and HMPV.
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“The overall scale and intensity of respiratory infectious diseases in China this year is lower than last year,” sources noted, adding that a seasonal increase in respiratory pathogens during winter is typical across the northern hemisphere.
Strain on Chinese healthcare facilities
Reports from China have highlighted the strain on healthcare systems, particularly children’s hospitals, as they grapple with a sharp rise in pneumonia cases, often referred to as “white lung” symptoms. Hospitals and crematoriums are reportedly overwhelmed due to a surge in respiratory illnesses, including HMPV.
In late December, Chinese authorities initiated a monitoring system for pneumonia of unknown origin, aiming to bolster preparedness for emerging pathogens. Kan Biao, an official from the National Disease Control and Prevention Administration, noted that respiratory infectious diseases are likely to rise in winter and spring. However, he added that the total number of cases this year is expected to be lower than in 2023.
Efforts to address emerging illnesses
The new monitoring system in China seeks to enhance laboratory reporting and enable disease control agencies to verify and respond to cases effectively. This move follows criticism of China’s initial response to the COVID-19 outbreak, which was hampered by a lack of readiness.
Pathogens detected in December include rhinovirus and HMPV, with an increase in cases among individuals under 14 years old. Despite concerns, neither the Chinese government nor the WHO has confirmed an official HMPV outbreak.
Preparedness in India
India’s health ministry is closely following developments to ensure proactive measures are in place to mitigate potential risks. “We are in regular contact with global health agencies and will act swiftly should any actionable information emerge,” sources assured.
With the cold wave persisting across the region, authorities stress the importance of maintaining vigilance and strengthening healthcare systems to handle seasonal surges in respiratory illnesses.
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