Ministry of Health Says the Spread of Mysterious Pneumonia Cases in China is Not as Fast as COVID-19

Illustration of Covid-19 (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - Director of Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases at the Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) Imran Pambudi explained that the mysterious pneumonia that is currently spreading in China is in principle the same as pneumonia that occurs in the community, namely caused by bacterial infection.

However, he said, based on epidemiological reports, most pneumonia cases there were caused by mycoplasma pneumoniae.

"Mycoplasma is a bacteria that commonly causes respiratory infections before COVID-19. This bacteria is known to have a long incubation period," said Imran in his statement, quoted Thursday, November 30.

Thus, Imran stated that the spread of the mysterious pneumonia case was not as fast as the virus that causes the COVID-19 pandemic. The death rate or facilities are also lower.

Imran also asked the public not to panic about the spread of the pneumonia outbreak among children in China.

"People should actually increase their self-vigilance, especially when traveling abroad. People remain calm, don't panic," he said.

The community, continued Imran, can mitigate and prevent the transmission of pneumonia in Indonesia. First, vaccinate against influenza, COVID-19 and other respiratory pathogens if necessary.

Second, do not make contact or maintain a safe distance from people who are sick. Third, ensure it has good ventilation.

Fourth, cultivate clean and healthy living behavior (PHBS) such as washing hands using antiseptic soap and running water. Fifth, if you feel unwell or sick, you should not leave the house and continue to wear a mask properly and correctly.

"Immediately go to the nearest health facility if there are signs of symptoms, coughing and/or difficulty breathing accompanied by fever," he added.

The nationwide increase in pneumonia was first reported by China's National Health Commission on November 13, 2023, according to WHO.

China recorded 205 influenza clusters in the week starting November 13, compared to 127 clusters in the previous week.

Patients complain of symptoms such as fever, fatigue and cough, but to date there have been no reports of deaths.

China's National Health Commission attributed the increase in respiratory disease infections to the circulation of known pathogens, especially influenza, as well as mycoplasma pneumonia, respiratory syncytial virus, rhinovirus, adenovirus, as well as COVID-19.

Another factor contributing to the spread of the virus is the arrival of winter, which this year was China's first since the country lifted its zero COVID policy, almost a year ago.