The Ministry of Health has taken note of local media reports regarding a cluster of respiratory illnesses in children in Northern China. The Ministry of Health, via its International Health Regulations (IHR) focal point (the Chief Medical Officer), received correspondence from the World Health Organization’s (WHO) IHR regional focal point on the cluster of respiratory illness in children.

The Ministry of Health can therefore confirm the following excerpt taken from the WHO:

“On 21 November, media and ProMED reported clusters of undiagnosed pneumonia in children in northern China. It is unclear if these are associated with the overall increase in respiratory infections previously reported by Chinese authorities, or separate events.

On 22 November, WHO requested additional epidemiologic and clinical information, as well as laboratory results from these reported clusters among children, through the International Health Regulations mechanism. We have also requested further information about recent trends in the circulation of known pathogens in China”.

The public is reminded that Trinidad and Tobago is currently within the Influenza season which runs from October 2023 to May 2024. As such, persons who have not yet received this vaccine are encouraged to visit the nearest health centre at their earliest convenience.

The Ministry also takes this opportunity to advise the public that they should continue to maintain the principles and practice of good hygiene, as these measures will assist in the maintenance of low levels of transmission of infectious diseases.

Some of these practices include:

• Washing hands regularly with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based hand sanitisers (containing at least 70% alcohol).

• Regular cleaning and sanitising of high touch surfaces (e.g. door knobs, countertops, desks).

• Avoid sharing personal items like utensils, water bottles, towels and wash rags with others.

• Avoid touching your face and eyes with unclean hands.

• Avoid close contact with persons who display symptoms of infectious viruses.

• Stay home if you are ill.

The Ministry of Health will continue to monitor the situation and update the population as it becomes necessary.