Expert warns Europe to prepare for worst-case scenario over mystery China virus

30 November 2023 , 23:07

1199     0

Children receive a drip at a children hospital in Beijing amid rising cases of a respiratory illness (Image: AFP via Getty Images)

A health expert has issued a warning about a potential outbreak in Europe due to China's current epidemic of a pneumonia-like illness.

The mysterious illness is causing havoc in China, with hospitals overwhelmed with sick children and schools shut down. Fears are growing that the outbreak has reached Europe, as the Netherlands is hit by a sudden surge of pneumonia cases among children.

With concerns rising about a new pandemic just years after Covid began, a health expert said that Europe needs to step up its preventative measures. He warns that the readiness of healthcare systems to handle this outbreak is being "overlooked".

Dr Joseph Ambani, an infectious disease specialist, said we don't know enough about the "worrying" respiratory illness yet. However, he stressed that Europe's healthcare systems need to prepare for the worst.

Parents with children who are suffering from respiratory diseases are lining up at a children's hospital in Chongqing, China, (NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Speaking to the Daily Express, he said: "[Understanding] whether it's a novel strain or a mutation of an existing virus is critical. This knowledge shapes our predictions about its spread and virulence. If it's a novel virus, we're venturing into the unknown, with potential for both higher virulence and a lack of immunity in the population."

Baby boy has spent his life in hospital as doctors are 'scared' to discharge him

At present, China claims that the respiratory illness is caused by bacterial infection, RSV, influenza and common cold viruses. However, there are increasing concerns that they are underplaying its severity. The infection could hit Europe hard due to its older population, as pneumonia symptoms are often worse in the elderly.

Dr Ambani warned of "significant challenges" and expressed concern about the situation, especially as the path of the outbreak is still "uncertain". He also stressed the need for Europe's healthcare systems to prepare for the infection. He emphasised the importance of staying alert and increasing efforts to lessen its impact.

He stated: "Europe must not only ramp up surveillance but also ensure its healthcare infrastructure from ICUs to primary care is equipped to handle a potential surge in cases. This preparedness extends to stockpiling essential medical supplies and training healthcare professionals in epidemic management."

At present, the World Health Organization (WHO) is examining data from China on the growing outbreak, while medics worldwide remain on high alert.

* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story. You can report any errors to [email protected]

Rebecca Robinson