Summer Brings Heightened Risk of Infectious Diseases, Officials Warn

The National Disease Control and Prevention Administration issued a warning on Friday regarding an elevated risk of several infectious diseases during the summer months. These include dengue fever, hand-foot-and-mouth disease, and various diarrheal illnesses, along with other diseases spread by vectors or through the intestines.

According to spokeswoman Xi Jingjing, the anticipated increase in population movement coupled with the hot and rainy summer weather is expected to contribute to the rise in these infectious diseases. She specifically mentioned the growing risk of dengue fever outbreaks in some southern provinces due to increased mosquito activity. Additionally, tick-borne diseases, such as severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome, are also likely to cause clusters of infections in certain regions.

Xi further noted that hand-foot-and-mouth disease, diarrhea, and other intestinal infections are currently at their peak season. Conversely, the levels of acute respiratory illnesses like COVID-19 and influenza remain relatively low.

Li Yan, a chief physician at the Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, explained that dengue fever is endemic in Southeast Asia and South America. Imported cases are reported in China annually, with local outbreaks occurring in some southern provinces during the summer and autumn. Common symptoms include sudden fever, muscle and joint pain, rash, and bleeding. While most cases are mild or asymptomatic, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic conditions are at higher risk of developing severe complications. These severe cases can lead to heavy bleeding, shock, organ failure, and even death.

To prevent infections, the public is advised to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds by removing standing water around their homes. Using mosquito nets while sleeping and applying insect repellents when visiting parks between April and November are also recommended. It is also crucial to stay informed about local disease outbreaks and take preventive measures when traveling to areas with a high incidence of mosquito-borne diseases in Southeast Asia, South America, and Africa. Seeking medical attention if symptoms develop is also important.