Health
WHO Clarifies Winter Respiratory Virus Surge in China
- WHO confirms winter surge in respiratory viruses in China, no emergency declared.
- Infections involve common viruses like flu, hMPV, and RSV, with low hospital utilization.
- Dr. Harris urges preventive measures like hand hygiene and masks to reduce infection risk.
EKO HOT BLOG reports thatIn a press briefing on Tuesday in Geneva, Dr. Harris addressed concerns regarding the increase in respiratory viruses in China, particularly the human metapneumovirus (hMPV). She explained that the rise in common respiratory infections is typical for winter.
According to data from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the surge involves familiar pathogens, such as seasonal influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), hMPV, and SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19.
EDITOR’S PICKS
- El-Rufai Denies Joining PDP, Threatens Legal Action Over Fake News
- Marketers to Begin Lifting Petrol from Port Harcourt Refinery This Week – PETROAN
- Nigerians Express Frustration as Transport Fares Remain High Despite Petrol Price Reduction
Dr. Harris noted that seasonal influenza was the most commonly detected virus, with over 30% of flu-like cases testing positive by late December. The WHO confirmed that the reported levels of respiratory infections in China fall within the normal winter range, and hospital utilization is lower compared to this time last year.
“There have been no emergency declarations or responses triggered,” Dr. Harris emphasized.
Addressing concerns about hMPV, Dr. Harris clarified that the virus, which was first identified in 2001, has been circulating in humans for many years, causing symptoms similar to the common cold. While it can lead to more severe illness in those with weakened immune systems, such as infants and the elderly, it is not a new or particularly deadly virus, with a very low mortality rate.
FURTHER READING
- CAF Confederation Cup: How Former Super Eagles Striker, Ideye Inspired Enyimba to Defeat Black Bulls 4-1
- BREAKING: Renowned Businesswoman,Chief Mrs. Khadijah Adebisi Edionseri, ‘ Cash Madam ,’ Passes Away at 89
- Christmas Day Tragedy: Benue State Set To Hold Mass Burial For Farmers Killed
She urged the public to take preventive measures, reminding people that the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic—such as hand hygiene, mask-wearing, improving ventilation, and avoiding crowded places—can significantly reduce the risk of infections.
hMPV is also a significant contributor to respiratory infections in North America, Europe, and Asia, especially during colder months. In the United States, it has been linked to a rise in hospitalizations for respiratory illness in young children. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has also noted an increase in hMPV cases in Europe, particularly among children in hospitals.
Click HERE For Our Video Of The Week
Advertise or Publish a Story on EkoHot Blog:
Kindly contact us at ekohotblog@gmail.com. Breaking stories should be sent to the above email and substantiated with pictorial evidence.
Citizen journalists will receive a token as data incentive.
Call or Whatsapp: 0803 561 7233, 0703 414 5611
