The Blubber

Mysterious respiratory outbreak in China gets attention of World Health Organization, per NYP.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has requested information from China regarding an outbreak of respiratory illnesses and cases of reportedly undiagnosed pneumonia. The WHO's inquiry follows the circulation of videos on local media depicting crowded hospitals with children. Since mid-October, northern China has seen a rise in "influenza-like illnesses," with clusters of undiagnosed childhood pneumonia cases reported.

The WHO seeks clarification amid concerns raised by Chinese media, including cities like Xian, where hospitals appear overwhelmed. Reports indicate a potentially widespread outbreak of an undiagnosed respiratory illness, primarily affecting children. The International Society for Infectious Diseases Program for Monitoring Emerging Diseases (ProMED) notes uncertainties about the outbreak's origin but suggests potential exposure in schools.

China's previous "Covid zero" policy, characterized by strict measures, lasted nearly two years before being abandoned in December. Chinese authorities attribute the spike in illnesses to the relaxation of stringent measures, a cold snap, and the presence of known pathogens like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza.