China Grapples with Mysterious Respiratory Outbreak, Echoes of Early Covid Days

Beijing, November 28, 2023 – China is once again under the global spotlight as it confronts a mysterious respiratory outbreak that has overwhelmed hospitals, particularly affecting children. Scenes of mask-wearing crowds in hospitals, reminiscent of the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic, have triggered concerns and comparisons internationally.

Chinese authorities are downplaying the situation, attributing it to a rebound in severe flu and respiratory illnesses suppressed by the country’s prolonged and strict lockdown measures, rather than a novel virus. Critics, including former White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel, point to China’s history of cover-ups, raising skepticism about the official narrative.

The outbreak first gained international attention on November 21 when the disease surveillance system ProMED issued a notification about reports of “undiagnosed pneumonia” in China. The World Health Organization (WHO) promptly requested official data, aiming to avoid a repeat of the criticism it faced during the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic for allegedly protecting Beijing.

Chinese authorities held a teleconference with the WHO on Thursday, providing data indicating the clusters were from known pathogens. The surge in pediatric cases of mycoplasma pneumoniae, RSV, adenovirus, influenza, and Covid-19 has been observed since the fall. Health officials argue that the rise is not entirely unprecedented and could be linked to pandemic-era lockdowns suppressing children’s immunity.

Experts worldwide note a similar trend in other countries post-lockdown, where a surge in respiratory illnesses, including flu, has been observed. China, with its extended and strict ‘zero Covid’ policies, experienced a longer and harsher lockdown than most nations, leading to mass protests.

The delay in reporting and lack of transparency have raised concerns about the accuracy of the information coming out of China. While officials claim the outbreak primarily affects children, the ambiguity is reminiscent of initial claims surrounding the spread of Covid-19.

WHO officials have reassured the public, stating that the spike in respiratory illnesses is not as high as during the Covid-19 pandemic. Maria Van Kerkhove, acting director of the WHO’s department of epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention, emphasized that the increase appears driven by children contracting pathogens they were shielded from during two years of Covid restrictions.

China’s National Health Commission spokesperson Mi Feng echoed these sentiments, linking the surge in acute respiratory illnesses to the simultaneous circulation of various pathogens, with influenza being the most prominent. As winter approaches, Chinese health agencies are intensifying monitoring efforts, promoting vaccinations, and ensuring adequate medical resources and treatment.

Images emerging from China depict overwhelmed hospital waiting rooms, emphasizing the strain on healthcare facilities. However, the situation seems less dire compared to the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic, with no reports of full hazmat suits or overcrowded funeral homes. The global community continues to watch closely as China navigates this latest public health challenge.