China sees decline in respiratory infections, schools cautioned

The spread of acute respiratory infections, including influenza, has been trending downward in China, though the nation has not yet passed its seasonal epidemic. The start of the new school semester could amplify the risk of infection, according to a health expert and official data.

Latest data released by the Chinese Center for Disease and Prevention shows a consistent decline in levels of influenza, human parainfluenza virus, rhinovirus and other respiratory pathogens since mid-January.

"Influenza flu remains the predominant pathogen in circulation and the nation is still in the middle of the flu epidemic season. Nonetheless, the intensity of the virus’s spread has subsided," said Peng Zhibin, a researcher at the China CDC, during a recent news conference held by the National Health Commission.

The data also indicates a continued decline in the positivity rates of respiratory syncytial virus, human parainfluenza virus, mycoplasma pneumonia and a persistent low level of adenovirus, coronavirus and other respiratory pathogens.

Despite a fall in new infections, the China CDC notes that nursery care institutions and schools could face a heightened risk of infection clusters with the onset of the new semester.

Peng emphasized that the nation is still in the grip of a seasonal epidemic and it’s crucial for people to receive flu vaccines to reduce the risk of infections and severe symptoms.

With the rising temperatures and the initiation of the spring semester, Peng said that campuses will be coping with increased risk of infectious diseases such as norovirus, measles, hand-foot-mouth disease, chickenpox and meningitis.

"These diseases typically spread through respiratory droplets or close contact," she said.

Peng advised students and school staff to get vaccinated for preventable diseases to strengthen herd immunity.

Meanwhile, it is important to ensure proper ventilation and maintain a clean indoor environment.

"When dealing with vomit or excrement from students infected with norovirus infections, it is recommended to apply chlorine-based disinfectants on the surface for at least 30 minutes before cleaning them up," she said.

Related items should also be soaked in chlorine-based disinfectant for 30 minutes or longer and it is important to wear masks and gloves when handling contaminated items.

"Early detection and handling of infection clusters on campus is of paramount importance," she added.