China is currently experiencing a higher rate of influenza compared to earlier in the year, but the numbers are still lower than at the same time in 2024, according to a statement from the National Health Commission on Sunday. The commission predicts a decline in cases and assures that both vaccines and antiviral treatments continue to be effective.
Wang Liping, a researcher with the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, addressed the media, explaining that the recent uptick in acute respiratory infection visits to medical facilities is primarily due to influenza. “Monitoring results show that influenza is the leading cause of this rise in hospital visits,” Wang said during a press briefing.
The health expert noted that with the upcoming holiday break for primary and middle schools, flu activity is expected to drop significantly in the coming weeks. “As schools close for the holidays, we anticipate a decrease in influenza cases by mid to late January,” Wang added.
While respiratory infections continue to fluctuate in prevalence, Wang reassured the public that the pathogens in circulation, including human metapneumovirus, are well-known and not linked to any new infectious diseases.
The H1N1 subtype remains the dominant strain of influenza this season, and antigenic analysis indicates that it is well-matched with this year’s flu vaccine, confirming its effectiveness. Wang emphasized that everyone aged six months and older, who has no contraindications such as allergies to vaccine components, should receive an annual flu vaccine. “It is not too late to get this year’s flu shot; it continues to provide protection throughout the flu season,” he said, highlighting its role in reducing infection risk, mitigating illness severity, and preventing complications.
Current analyses indicate that the prevalent influenza virus is sensitive to antiviral treatments, meaning that medication remains effective.
Wang also advised that most individuals will recover from the flu within one to two weeks. However, he cautioned that those experiencing symptoms like high fever, severe cough, difficulty breathing, altered mental state, or severe vomiting and diarrhea should seek immediate medical attention.
Dr. Xu Baoping, chief physician at Beijing Children’s Hospital, recommended that parents of children with a fever, but otherwise well-appearing, should monitor their symptoms at home. “If the fever persists and is accompanied by fatigue, labored breathing, severe vomiting, or seizures, parents should seek medical advice promptly,” Xu said.
With the 2025 Spring Festival travel rush approaching, health officials advised travelers to prepare by bringing masks, disinfectant wipes, and hand sanitizers. Wang also urged elderly individuals and those with chronic health conditions to receive vaccinations for COVID-19, influenza, and pneumococcal disease before traveling.
Travelers are reminded to wear masks correctly, avoid touching their faces, and sanitize their hands after coming into contact with public surfaces. Upon reaching their destinations, they should change clothes, wash their hands, and wash their faces immediately. If respiratory symptoms develop, Wang urged individuals to stay home and avoid gatherings.
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