According to recent press conferences held by the National Health Commission regarding the current situation of respiratory diseases and the COVID-19 epidemic in China, the COVID-19 epidemic is still at a low level, but there has been a slight increase in recent case reports and monitoring data, indicating an upward trend in the COVID-19 epidemic. The JN.1 variant strain has become the dominant strain in domestic COVID-19 cases, with mild infections primarily. With increased interregional mobility and gatherings during the Spring Festival, it is expected that the COVID-19 epidemic will gradually rise.
Monitoring data shows that the situation of acute respiratory diseases in China peaked in early December 2023, declined for two consecutive weeks, and then slightly rebounded at the end of December, remaining at a high level of fluctuation with a declining trend in recent 3 weeks. Among them, the trend of influenza is declining but it still remains the main pathogen for respiratory infections. Other respiratory diseases are at relatively low levels. Experts predict that China will continue to experience alternating or co-existing epidemic of various respiratory diseases in February, with influenza expected to decrease to a low level before and after the Spring Festival.
The Spring Festival is a long holiday for family gatherings and visiting relatives and friends. While celebrating the festival, it is also necessary to implement prevention and control measures for infectious diseases.
1. Confirming Personal Health Status: If you experience symptoms such as fever or cough, try to avoid attending gatherings or parties. If attendance is necessary, take personal protection measures.
2. Wear masks during gatherings and maintain a certain distance from others while dining.
3. Maintaining Good Hygiene Practices: Wash hands before meals, use separate utensils, and avoid sharing tableware.
4. When dining out, choose restaurants with complete licenses and good hygiene conditions.
5. Ensuring Indoor Ventilation: Ensure indoor air circulation while maintaining warmth.
6. After gatherings, monitor your health and take appropriate measures if any abnormal symptoms occur.
Additionally, Beijing 120 reminds you that during the Spring Festival, it is necessary to avoid excessive alcohol consumption to prevent alcohol poisoning. Particularly, you should refrain from drinking alcohol within a week of taking cephalosporin antibiotics. If you experience symptoms of respiratory or gastrointestinal infections such as bloating, abdominal pain or diarrhea, it is necessary to observe and rest in a timely manner according to the symptoms, and seek medical attention or call emergency services if necessary.