China is reportedly grappling with a mysterious viral outbreak that has led to an influx of patients in hospitals, raising fears of another potential pandemic.
Social media footage depicts overwhelmed hospital units, with patients donning face masks and parents waiting in long lines at pediatric units with their ill children.
There have also been unverified reports of crematoriums and funeral homes struggling to cope with the rising death toll.
The lack of official commentary has drawn parallels to the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic.
SEE ALSO: Here are the health benefits of drinking water early in the morning
Initial local reports have suggested the outbreak could be attributed to a little-known virus called human metapneumovirus (HMPV), typically responsible for mild cold-like symptoms. However, officials have yet to confirm this.
This situation mirrors the winter of 2022-23 when China experienced a surge in mycoplasma pneumonia cases, a condition termed ‘white lung’.
That outbreak was linked to children’s low immunity levels, a consequence of prolonged lockdowns and school closures aimed at curbing Covid-19.
Despite speculations, the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has pointed to regular flu as the primary cause of the current outbreak.
Reports indicate that 30 percent of tests are returning positive for influenza, with one in seven hospitalized patients testing positive for the virus.
SEE ALSO: Here Are 10 Foods That Can Help Get Rid Of Pimples
The Chinese CDC’s latest data reveals an alarming rise in flu-like illnesses, particularly in northern provinces, where 7.2 percent of outpatient visits were due to such symptoms.
This marks a 12 percent increase from the previous week and surpasses levels seen in previous flu seasons since 2021.
In the southern regions, 5.7 percent of outpatient visits were attributed to flu-like illnesses, reflecting a 21 percent weekly increase.