Several states have heightened their health infrastructure readiness following a directive from the Centre regarding a spike in respiratory infections among children in China. Rajasthan, Karnataka, Gujarat, Uttarakhand, and Tamil Nadu have all taken measures to ensure hospitals and healthcare personnel are equipped to handle patients experiencing respiratory problems.

In response to the Centre's directive, the Karnataka health department has urged citizens to remain vigilant against seasonal flu. Alongside outlining the symptoms and risk factors associated with the flu, the department issued guidelines on preventive measures, including covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, frequent handwashing, avoiding face-touching, and wearing masks in crowded areas.

The advisory from the Rajasthan health department emphasized that the current situation isn't alarming but urged medical staff to remain vigilant and prevent the spread of infectious diseases. It also stressed the importance of adequate arrangements in pediatric units and medicine departments.

Uttarakhand authorities have instructed health officials to intensify surveillance for respiratory illnesses, particularly in districts sharing borders with China such as Chamoli, Uttarkashi, and Pithoragarh. Although no cases of child pneumonia have been reported in the state, officials are on high alert as a precautionary measure.

This action follows the Union Health Ministry's advisory to states, urging a review of readiness to handle any potential developments. The ministry has assured that while the situation is being closely monitored, it is not currently a cause for alarm.

The ministry's statement highlighted the advice given to all states and union territories to implement operational guidelines for revised surveillance strategies related to COVID-19. These guidelines aim to integrate surveillance of respiratory pathogens, identifying cases of influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory illness (SARI).

The recent surge in respiratory illness cases in northern China, particularly among children, has raised concerns, reminiscent of the COVID-19 outbreak four years ago that evolved into a global pandemic.

How to Make Your Face Glow in Winter? Combat Dryness with These 2 Masks