The World Health Organization (WHO) urged individuals in China to follow measures aimed at reducing the risk of respiratory illness.

In addition, the organization has requested more information from authorities about a documented rise in cases among children.

At a press briefing on November 13, 2023, officials from the National Health Commission in China shared information about an increase in respiratory diseases in the country.

The UN health body has stated that there has been a rise in influenza-like illness in the northern areas of the country since mid-October, in comparison to the same period in the previous three years. This information was shared in a statement posted on X.

WHO statement on reported clusters of respiratory illness in children in northern China

WHO has made an official request to #China for detailed information on an increase in respiratory illnesses and reported clusters of pneumonia in children.

At a press conference on 13… pic.twitter.com/Jq8TgZjWNX

— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) November 22, 2023

Clusters of undiagnosed pneumonia in children in northern China were reported by the media and public disease surveillance system ProMED on 21 November. “It remains uncertain whether these events are linked to the previously reported rise in respiratory infections or if they are separate occurrences,” stated the World Health Organization.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), they have formally asked China for more information regarding the rise in respiratory illnesses and the occurrence of pneumonia clusters in children.

On November 13, Chinese authorities informed reporters that the increase in respiratory illness was a result of the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions and the presence of familiar pathogens such as influenza and common bacterial infections that specifically impact children.

Clusters of undiagnosed pneumonia in children in northern China were reported by the media and public disease surveillance system ProMED on November 21.

The World Health Organization (WHO) stated that it is currently uncertain whether ProMED’s report is connected to the authorities’ press conference. The WHO is actively seeking clarification on this matter.

What is the communication between WHO and China?

WHO maintains communication with clinicians and scientists through our established technical partnerships and networks in China.

The WHO has also asked for additional information regarding recent trends in the circulation of well-known pathogens such as influenza, SARS-CoV-2, RSV, and mycoplasma pneumoniae, as well as the impact on healthcare systems.

Meanwhile, the WHO has recommended that people take preventive measures to protect themselves and others. These measures include getting vaccinated, keeping a safe distance from those who are sick, staying home when feeling unwell, practicing good hand hygiene, and using masks correctly.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the WHO expressed their disapproval of Chinese authorities, highlighting concerns about transparency and collaboration.

Guidelines are issued by the World Health Organization (WHO)

The WHO advises individuals in China to take certain precautions to lower the chances of respiratory illness. These measures include getting recommended vaccinations, maintaining distance from sick individuals, staying home when feeling unwell, seeking medical care and testing when necessary, wearing masks when appropriate, ensuring proper ventilation, and practicing regular hand-washing.

It has been over three years since cases were first identified in Wuhan, and the origins of Covid-19 continue to be a topic of debate, according to WHO.

“The scientific community is currently divided between two primary theories,” stated the World Health Organization (WHO). One theory suggests the possibility of the virus escaping from a laboratory in the city where such viruses were being studied. The other theory proposes that the transmission occurred from an intermediate animal to humans at a local market.”

Earlier this year, experts from the World Health Organization emphasized the importance of Beijing sharing more data on the origins of COVID-19. They stated that it was crucial from a moral standpoint to provide this information.

In early 2021, a team of experts, including the WHO and Chinese counterparts, carried out an investigation in China. Nevertheless, no other team has managed to make a return, and officials from the World Health Organization have consistently asked for more data.

Highlighting the importance of unraveling this enigma, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the head of WHO, has emphasized that comprehending the origins could have a vital impact on averting future pandemics.