Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun. Photo: Chinese Foreign Ministry

Responding to an inquiry related to respiratory diseases in China, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Tuesday that the Chinese government insists on promptly releasing transparent information about infectious diseases in accordance with the law. 

For the specific question, Guo recommended consulting relevant authorities in China for further information. 

According to the latest monitoring data from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC), the positivity rate for influenza viruses is continuously rising, with more than 99 percent being influenza A, predominantly the A(H1N1)pdm09 subtype. 

Health authorities in multiple regions have also issued urgent reminders, calling for enhanced personal protective measures, the report said. 

The latest data released by China CDC indicates that for the week from December 23 to 29, 2024, influenza remained the most detected pathogen among patients of respiratory diseases in both northern and southern regions, across outpatient and inpatient cases. The level of influenza activity varies across regions, with a more noticeable rise in northern provinces, although it remains lower than the same period last year.

Other prevalent pathogens include rhinovirus and human metapneumovirus (HMPV), according to China CDC. The Center noted a recent rise in HMPV-positive cases, with a more noticeable increase in northern provinces, the Life Times reported. 

HMPV is a common virus that can cause acute respiratory infections. Similar to most respiratory viruses, it is mainly transmitted through droplets and contact. Winter and spring are peak seasons for HMPV outbreaks, and it is more likely to spread in crowded environments like schools, hospitals, and nursing homes, according to the Life Times.

The virus can cause repeated infections and poses a significant threat to children, as it is a leading cause of acute respiratory infections in children under five, the report said. 

The report added HMPV may cause severe lower respiratory tract infections among children under 5 years old, the elderly, and people with low immunity.

Global Times