Warning Issued About Increase in Pediatric Pneumonia Cases
Health officials in Ohio and Massachusetts have raised concerns about a rise in pneumonia cases among children. However, experts have clarified that there is no connection between this outbreak and the ongoing pneumonia outbreak in China.
In a press release issued by the health departments of both states, it was stated that these cases of pediatric pneumonia, sometimes referred to as "white lung syndrome," commonly present symptoms such as cough, fever, and fatigue. Fortunately, most cases of bacterial pneumonia can be effectively treated with antibiotics and do not require hospitalization.
The officials emphasized that the recent illnesses are not suspected to be caused by a new or novel respiratory virus. Instead, they appear to be an increase in the number of typical pediatric pneumonia cases.
"There is no evidence whatsoever of this outbreak being linked to other outbreaks, whether at the state, national, or international level," the statement asserted.
During a House committee hearing on Thursday, Dr. Mandy Cohen, the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, addressed questions regarding the outbreak. She stated that there is no evidence of a new virus similar to COVID-19 in the pneumonia outbreak in China.
According to a medical expert, the recent outbreaks of respiratory illnesses in the United States and China are not connected but have similarities. Dr. Céline Gounder, a CBS News medical contributor and infectious disease specialist, explains that both countries are experiencing an increase in the usual viruses and bacteria that circulate every year in the community. This increase is particularly affecting children and infants who may not have immunity to these pathogens.
To prevent children from developing severe lung infections like pneumonia, Dr. Gounder recommends vaccinating them against viruses such as the flu, COVID, and RSV. While these viruses may not be fatal to children and infants, they can make them more susceptible to viral and bacterial pneumonia. Vaccination or receiving RSV shots can help prevent these complications.
In addition to appropriate shots, there are other ways to help protect children against sickness this cold and flu season.
Keep immune systems going strong by "eating nutritious food, getting enough physical activity and sleep," Dr. Evelyn Chan, pediatrician and CEO of digital therapeutics company Smileyscope, previously told CBS News.
You can also teach kids ways to reduce infections, she said.
"So, wash their hands frequently, sneeze into their elbow, wear masks where possible, stay at home if they have an illness so that they don't spread it to others," Chan advised.
Some experts also suggest masking again in some situations to help reduce your risk not only for COVID but other respiratory illnesses.
