Hospitals across the Chinese mainland are reporting a spike in respiratory illnesses this winter—the first flu season without COVID-19 restrictions since 2020. Pediatric wards in northern regions are particularly busy, with cases driven by familiar viruses like influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). But how worried should we be? 🧐
Three health experts broke it down in a recent panel:
Dr. Alice Hyun-Kyung Tan, an internist at MizMedi Women’s Hospital, emphasized that ’known pathogens’ are behind the surge. ’This isn’t a mystery virus,’ she said. ’It’s similar to flu waves seen globally post-lockdowns as immunity dipped.’ 🌍
Wu Zhiwei, a public health professor at Nanjing University, cautioned against blaming masks: ’Protective measures saved lives during COVID. What we’re seeing now is a rebound effect—people mingling more freely again.’ 😷
Dr. Christopher KM Hui, part of Hong Kong’s COVID-19 task force, urged calm: ’Hospitals are prepared. Boost hygiene, get vaccinated, and seek care early if symptoms worsen.’ 💉
While the surge echoes post-pandemic trends seen in Europe and North America last year, experts agree: Stay alert, not anxious. Time to dust off those hand sanitizers! ✨
