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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DOH responds to China respiratory illness cluster; calls for vigilance, prevention

DOH responds to China respiratory illness cluster; calls for vigilance, prevention

Published Nov 24, 2023 08:31 am

The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday, Nov. 24, addressed the World Health Organization's (WHO) report on a cluster of respiratory illnesses affecting children in Northern China.

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WHO reported that the surge is linked to increased circulation of pathogens like influenza, mycoplasma pneumonia which is common in younger children, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SARS-CoV-2.


It emphasized that it is possibly attributed by Chinese authorities to the easing of Covid-19 restrictions.


Concerning this, the DOH said that its Epidemiology Bureau (EB) has taken swift action by reaching out to the International Health Regulations (IHR) National Focal Point of China, seeking additional information to better understand the situation.


Stressing the importance of vigilance, the health department underscored that the EB actively monitors the unfolding events.


At the local level, it disclosed that cases of influenza-like illnesses (ILI) exhibiting suspicious symptoms are diligently reported to the EB for continuous surveillance.


While the latest number of ILI cases in the country was 151,375 as of October 2023, the rate of increase has shown a “gradual slowdown” as reported by DOH.


To curb the potential surge in cases, the health department is urging the public to adopt preventive measures.


This includes practicing proper cough etiquette, wearing masks when appropriate, getting vaccinated, staying home or isolating if feeling unwell, and seeking early consultation when necessary.


The call to action aims to safeguard public health amidst the heightened concerns surrounding the respiratory illness cluster and the anticipated holiday travel, the DOH said.

Related Tags

respiratory disease World Health Organization (WHO) DOH
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