China's Urgent Need for More Fever Clinics to Tackle Pneumonia Surge

China has urged local authorities to increase the number of medical clinics to handle a surge in respiratory illnesses, particularly pneumonia cases, mostly affecting children. The outbreak is mainly concentrated in Beijing, Liaoning province, and other areas. Chinese health officials have advised increasing the number of clinics, extending service hours, and ensuring an adequate supply of drugs. The rise in acute respiratory illnesses is attributed to the simultaneous circulation of various pathogens, including influenza. Experts believe that the arrival of winter, the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, and a lack of prior immunity in children are contributing factors. The State Council has warned of the risk of a rebound in COVID-19 infections and other respiratory infections. The World Health Organization has called on China to provide more information about the surge in cases.