Respiratory illness in China: No echoes of a Covid-like pandemic, assures AIIMS expert

Respiratory illness in China: In the wake of increasing cases of respiratory illness in China, Dr SK Kabra, Head of the Mother and Child Block at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), sheds light on the situation.

Contrary to alarmist concerns, he assures that the current surge is attributed to common winter viruses, dismissing the possibility of another Covid-like pandemic.

Respiratory Illness in Northern China

Recent weeks have witnessed a notable surge in respiratory illness cases, particularly in children, in northern China. Dr SK Kabra addresses the concerns, providing insights into the nature of the infections and offering reassurance about the absence of any new or unusual viruses.

Understanding the Situation

Dr Kabra states, "Reports from China indicate a sudden increase in respiratory infections, predominantly in children, between October and November. Mycoplasma has been observed, but there is no indication of a novel organism that could lead to a pandemic like COVID. Common winter viruses, such as Influenza, Adenovirus, and Mycoplasma, are prevalent, aligning with the typical seasonal pattern."

Factors at Play

Experts attribute the rise in cases to several factors. Dr Kabra highlights, "Virus infections are more common in winter, and the prevailing ones are consistent with known viruses. Concerns arose due to the recent pandemic, but the evidence suggests that these are common seasonal infections. Moreover, the strict lockdown measures in China may have contributed to increased susceptibility among children who lacked exposure and immune development."

Lockdown Impact on Children's Immunity

Dr Kabra elaborates on the impact of the strict lockdown, stating, "Children under 5 typically experience viral infections multiple times a year, building immunity. However, those confined during the lockdown lack exposure, making them susceptible to infections. It's a hypothesis that as lockdown measures ease, these children, now with reduced immunity, might experience a sudden surge in infections."

Hygiene Practices and Precautions

In light of the situation, Dr Kabra urges the importance of hygiene practices and precautions. "Preventive measures, such as avoiding sending infected children outside, using masks, practising social distancing, and maintaining personal hygiene with sanitisers, are crucial. We faced similar phases last year, and our knowledge of pandemic management has grown. The Ministry advises doctors to investigate abnormal cases for prompt action."

Stay informed, stay vigilant – the respiratory illness surge in China is not a harbinger of a new pandemic, but a testament to the seasonal dynamics we've navigated with resilience.

(With ANI Inputs)