China is currently experiencing a significant upsurge in influenza cases, with health authorities reporting a rapid nationwide increase that is projected to intensify in the coming weeks. According to recent data from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the influenza positivity rate among patients presenting influenza-like symptoms has reached nearly 45% during the week beginning November 17, marking a substantial rise from the previous week’s 38% rate.
The national health agency has classified the current flu epidemic at a medium intensity level, with several provinces already reporting high influenza activity. Health officials have identified a particular vulnerability among school-aged children, noting that infection clusters within educational institutions continue to multiply. Children between five and fourteen years old are demonstrating significantly higher positivity rates compared to other age demographics.
While influenza dominates current respiratory concerns, other viruses including rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, and enterovirus remain in circulation, though their transmission rates show a declining trend while maintaining noticeable presence.
The China CDC has issued specific guidance for high-risk environments, urging nursery care facilities, schools, and elderly care institutions to implement rigorous health monitoring protocols and respond promptly to any detected infection clusters. Public health recommendations emphasize preventive measures, particularly advocating for vaccination among vulnerable populations including healthcare workers, elderly individuals, and those with preexisting medical conditions. The agency further advises mask-wearing in public spaces as an additional protective measure against respiratory virus transmission.