WHO asks China to give data on 'mysterious' respiratory illness in country

The World Health Organization (WHO) has asked China to provide additional data on the mysterious respiratory illness that is spreading in the north of the country. It has asked for epidemiologic and clinical information, as well as laboratory results from the reported clusters among children.

The Chinese authorities from the National Health Commission had reported an increase in incidence of respiratory diseases in China on November 13, attributing the increase to the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions.

The WHO ok Wednesday asked further information about recent trends in the circulation of known pathogens including influenza, SARS-CoV-2, RSV and mycoplasma pneumoniae, and the current burden on health care systems, the International health agency said in a statement.


“WHO is also in contact with clinicians and scientists through our existing technical partnerships and networks in China,” it said.

According to the WHO northern China has reported an increase in influenza-like illness compared to the same period in the previous three years.

“China has systems in place to capture information on trends in influenza, influenza-like illnesses, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2, and reports to platforms such as the Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System”.

The WHO has asked people in China to follow measures to reduce the risk of respiratory illness, which include recommended vaccination, keeping distance from people who are ill, staying home when ill, getting tested and medical care as needed, wearing masks as appropriate, ensuring good ventilation and regular hand-washing.