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China has experienced a surge in acute respiratory illnesses among children since October, leading to overcrowding in paediatric departments across the country. In response, the education ministry has issued a directive urging schools to conduct risk assessments and step up daily health checks and reporting. Health authorities have attributed the spike to multiple pathogens, including the influenza virus and mycoplasma pneumoniae, but have not identified any new infectious diseases. Teachers and parents have expressed concern over the outbreak, with some schools closing classes and implementing online learning for sick children

The education ministry has also called for collaboration with relevant departments to promote vaccination and guide families in disease control. Health experts have emphasized the importance of getting flu shots, stating that existing vaccines have proven to be safe and effective. Parents have shared their worries about their children falling ill and have called for stricter measures in schools, such as separate meals and regular handwashing. Some parents have even suggested temporary school closures or a shift to online teaching

The National Health Commission has urged hospitals to expand paediatric outpatient services and maximize hospital capacity to accommodate the influx of patients. However, teachers feel limited in their ability to control the spread of illness, as some parents continue to send their sick children to school. They also highlight the challenges of implementing widespread class closures and mask-wearing among students.