A health expert has warned that the globe may be “venturing into the unknown” following the breakout of a new “mysterious disease” in China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A rise in pneumonia cases in the Asian country has prompted calls for answers from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and countries around the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Health officials are eager to avoid a repeat scenario three years after Covid-19 was able to spread swiftly due to China’s concealment concerning the virus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
China’s Asian neighbours have already begun to restrict their borders, and the WHO has asked that face masks be returned to Beijing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Amid the uncertainty, Dr Joseph Ambani, an expert in infectious diseases, has described the lack of knowledge about the mystery illness as “worrying” for countries in Europe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“[Understanding] whether it’s a novel strain or a mutation of an existing virus is critical,” he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“This knowledge shapes our predictions about its spread and virulence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“If it’s a novel virus, we’re venturing into the unknown, with potential for both higher virulence and a lack of immunity in the population.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Denmark has already seen an increase in pneumonia infections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In the week ending November 26, 541 cases of mycoplasma pneumonia were reported.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ambani asked European nations to get ready now in case of an unexpected outbreak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Europe must not only increase surveillance, but also ensure that its healthcare infrastructure – from ICUs to primary care – is prepared to handle a potential surge in cases,” he said.<\/p>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
A health expert has warned that the globe may be “venturing into the unknown” following the breakout of a new “mysterious disease” in China. A rise in pneumonia cases in … <\/p>\n