Afflicted with flu? Take rest at home

As the number of acute respiratory infections is rising in China, with significant increases in cases of influenza and other viruses that particularly affect children, experts have suggested proper rest at home to avoid further complications.

In a surveillance report published on Thursday, the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention stated that during the week ending Dec 8, the three most prevalent respiratory illnesses nationwide were influenza, rhinovirus and mycoplasma pneumoniae — a common bacterial infection that primarily affects children age 5 to 14.

According to the China CDC's latest data, there is a marked increase in flu positivity rates compared to previous weeks, although infections caused by rhinovirus and mycoplasma pneumoniae are trending downward. However, respiratory syncytial virus — a common cause of cold-like symptoms that can pose severe risks for toddlers and the elderly — is on the rise among children age 4 and under.

Additionally, infections caused by human metapneumovirus are increasing among children and teenagers age 14 and under. Although this viral infection generally causes mild symptoms, it can lead to severe illness in individuals with compromised immune systems.

"Infected individuals are contagious from the end of the incubation period to the acute phase. The duration of immune protection after recovery is relatively short, which increases the likelihood of recurrent infections," the China CDC warned.

The agency advised people to rest at home if they are experiencing fever or other symptoms of respiratory infections. Students and school faculty members are also advised to stay home if they are feeling unwell.

Moreover, individuals with weakened immune systems are encouraged to get vaccinated against influenza, COVID-19 and pneumococcal disease.

"If children exhibit symptoms such as breathing difficulties or persistent fever, they should be taken to a hospital immediately," the report emphasized.

Wang Liping, a researcher at the China CDC, explained during a news conference earlier this month that the rise in respiratory infections among children during winter is largely due to increased time spent indoors and reduced respiratory protection in cold temperatures.

To curb the spread of these viruses, she recommended expanding vaccination coverage, maintaining good hygiene practices and ensuring proper ventilation in indoor spaces.