GENEVA, Jan 7: The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed on Tuesday that the global spread of respiratory viruses is still within the expected normal rates for the winter season. The organization explained that the current risks to public health remain low despite some recorded infections in the US and China, which do not warrant the activation of any emergency declarations or response plans.

WHO spokeswoman Margaret Harris emphasized during a press conference in Geneva the importance of monitoring the spread of the bird flu virus, particularly among animals such as poultry and livestock, in cooperation with relevant international organizations. She stated that the individual cases recorded—referring to the first death reported in the United States on Monday—did not change the organization’s assessment of the risks, which remain low for the general population.

In contrast, Harris pointed out that reports from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, dated January 2 and covering data until the end of December 2024, show an increase in common respiratory infections in China. The most notable of these are seasonal influenza, pneumonia virus, and the virus responsible for COVID-19. Harris noted that the Chinese surveillance system for influenza and severe respiratory diseases recorded a more than 30% increase in positive cases of seasonal influenza among all respiratory diseases. However, she stressed that respiratory infection levels in China remain within the expected range for the winter season.

Additionally, Harris stated that hospital infection rates are lower than those observed during the same period last year, according to data from Chinese authorities, and confirmed that no emergency responses are required at this time.

Regarding the human pneumonia virus that has recently spread, Harris clarified that it is not a new virus, as it was first discovered in 2001. It is one of the common viruses that causes mild respiratory symptoms in most cases, but it can pose a risk to vulnerable groups such as newborns, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.

On the global level, Harris mentioned that data from the WHO influenza surveillance system shows an increase in seasonal influenza infection rates, particularly in Asia, Europe, and Africa. She explained that this increase is consistent with seasonal expectations.

In this context, Harris stressed the importance of strengthening surveillance systems and enhancing data sharing between countries to ensure a rapid response to any changes in the behavior of seasonal viruses or epidemiological patterns.