Guangdong reports rise in flu activity, mask wearing suggested

Guangdong province has entered an active period for influenza, with flu activity rising above the off-season baseline since the 17th week of this year, according to the provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention. As a scientifically proven precautionary measure, the Guangdong CDC urged the public to wear masks to help prevent the spread of the virus.

Influenza-like illness cases reported by sentinel hospitals across the province accounted for 6.3 percent of all outpatient and emergency visits between April 27 and May 3, up from 6.04 percent the previous week and above the baseline of 5.89 percent, the center's surveillance bulletin said.

Two flu outbreaks were recorded in the province during the period, both of which have been effectively contained.

Kang Min, deputy director of the Guangdong CDC and chief expert on infectious disease prevention and control, said the current dominant strain is influenza B of the Victoria lineage. It is a common seasonal flu virus, and its overall intensity remains moderate.

Rhinovirus, parainfluenza virus, and respiratory syncytial virus are also circulating at certain levels, Kang added.

The CDC advised schools and childcare institutions to strengthen indoor ventilation, cleaning and disinfection, maintain morning and noon health checks, register absences due to illness, and guide students and staff in proper hand hygiene and cough etiquette.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​