BEIJING - In a statement that reflects an ongoing commitment to public health vigilance, an expert from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC) has confirmed that there are no new infectious diseases emerging in China.

The current cases of respiratory infections are attributed to known pathogens, according to Wang Liping, a research fellow at the China CDC.

During a recent press conference held by China's National Health Commission (NHC), Wang highlighted that influenza is the predominant illness leading to increased visits to healthcare facilities for patients experiencing acute respiratory symptoms.

Despite this uptick, data indicates that the overall intensity of influenza remains moderate across most provinces.

As educational institutions, including middle and primary schools, begin their winter holidays, a subsequent decrease in influenza cases is anticipated by mid to late January, Wang noted.

Addressing concerns about human metapneumovirus (HMPV), Wang clarified that this pathogen has been circulating among humans for decades.

The recent rise in HMPV reports is largely due to advancements in diagnostic technologies rather than an actual increase in occurrence.

The pressure on medical services due to respiratory illnesses this year appears to align with previous years, without exceeding last year's levels.

Nationwide visits to fever clinics and emergency departments have shown an increase, but these numbers remain below those recorded during the same period last year, said Gao Xinqiang, an NHC official.

He emphasized that there has been no significant shortage of medical supplies or resources.

Since October 2024, the Chinese government, alongside the China CDC and other relevant bodies, has proactively implemented monitoring and strategic plans.

This comprehensive strategy involves mobilizing resources and personnel nationwide to ensure that healthcare services continue to function smoothly and efficiently, noted Gao.

On the topic of preventive measures, Wang stressed the importance of influenza vaccination.

Surveillance data indicate that the H1N1 strain is currently the dominant virus subtype.

Antigenic analysis has confirmed that the influenza vaccine strain used this year is effective against this subtype.

Additionally, analysis of drug resistance patterns confirms that the circulating influenza viruses remain susceptible to existing antiviral medications, highlighting the efficacy of drug treatments available.

Wang advised that all eligible individuals above six months of age should consider receiving their annual influenza vaccine, provided there are no medical contraindications.

This advice underscores the importance of vaccination in public health strategy to mitigate the impact of seasonal influenza.'

China's public health leadership continues to prioritize transparency and effective management of respiratory infectious diseases, reinforcing its commitment to protecting the health and wellbeing of its population during the flu season and beyond.