China dismissed claims of a major flu outbreak as the country says this winter’s respiratory infections are less severe compared to last year. On January 3, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning tried to quell fears with reports of overburdened hospitals circulating in the country, stating that the healthcare situation in China is stable.
“Respiratory illnesses typically rise during winter in the northern hemisphere,” Ning told reporters in Beijing. She addressed concerns over Influenza A and other respiratory diseases spreading across China but said the scale and severity are lower than last year.
The spokesperson further emphasized that it is still safe for foreigners to visit China. “The Chinese government prioritizes the health of both citizens and visitors. Travel within the country is secure,” she affirmed.
The comments by Ning follow viral social media posts showing overburdened hospitals and crematories, reportedly handling surging cases of respiratory infections, mainly Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). However, China’s health officials described the situation as a regular seasonal pattern.
National Disease Control and Prevention Administration issues guidelines for China flu outbreak
The National Disease Control and Prevention Administration has already issued guidelines regarding the management of respiratory diseases during the winter. Yet, reports suggesting that the crisis is grave appear to be inflated accounts of an annual winter trend, according to Chinese authorities.
Meanwhile, the country is not far behind in the news related to China. Atul Goel, who is the Director General of Health Services in India, clarified regarding HMPV, saying there are no such cases reported so far in the country.
“HMPV brings symptoms similar to those of the common cold. People must take standard precautions like avoiding coming into contact with infected people and taking prescribed medications for cold and fever,” said Goel, assuring the people not to get panicked.
China is also experiencing severe weather conditions during its winter season. This has compounded the seasonal infections. The situation, according to officials, remains under control and should not be read into sensational reports.
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