China's Pneumonia Outbreak: What We Know and What You Can Do
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In recent weeks, there has been growing concern about an outbreak of respiratory illness in northern China. While the exact cause of the outbreak remains undetermined, Chinese health authorities have identified a number of potential factors, including influenza, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and adenovirus. Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a bacterium that commonly causes pneumonia in children and young adults. Adenoviruses are a group of viruses that can cause a variety of respiratory illnesses, including the common cold. Symptoms of the outbreak The symptoms of the outbreak are similar to those of other respiratory illnesses, and include: Fever Cough Sore throat Runny or stuffy nose Body aches Headache In some cases, the illness can progress to pneumonia, which can be a serious illness, especially for young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. What is being done to address the outbreak Chinese health authorities are taking steps to address the outbreak, incl...