Ministry Of Health Closely Monitoring A Rise In Acute Respiratory Infections In China

The Ministry of Health has issued a statement notifying the public that it is closely monitoring a rise in acute respiratory infections in China. Recent data from the Chinese Center for Disease Control (China CDC) for December 23–29, 2024, shows increased cases of seasonal influenza, hMPV, rhinovirus, and adenovirus. However, the overall scale of infections remains lower than the same period last year. The Ministry confirmed with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and China CDC that no state of emergency has been declared in China. It said Seasonal increases in respiratory illnesses are typical during winter in the Northern Hemisphere. As Trinidad and Tobago gears up for the Carnival season, the Ministry is urging vulnerable groups, including the elderly, pregnant women, immunocompromised individuals, and those with chronic conditions, to get the free Influenza vaccine available at health centres nationwide. The Ministry will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed.