Beijing's predominant flu strain: H1N1 influenza A

Experts have said that the predominant flu strain circulating in Beijing this flu season is the H1N1 type of influenza A, with the majority of individuals with normal immune function being able to recover on their own.

According to Li Dongzeng, a doctor at the infectious diseases department of Beijing You'an Hospital, no new strains of respiratory infectious diseases have been discovered, as reported by Beijing Daily on Wednesday.

"Individual infections with respiratory viruses can present with varying symptoms," he said. "Dizziness, headaches, fatigue and muscle aches are common symptoms of respiratory infectious diseases."

Although the symptoms may feel more severe compared to other respiratory infections, the flu is a self-limiting disease, and most individuals with normal immune function can recover on their own within five to seven days, he said.

Elderly individuals, infants, pregnant women and obese individuals with lower immunity are at a higher risk of developing severe complications after contracting the flu virus.

The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention recently released the latest monitoring data on respiratory infectious diseases nationwide. The data indicates an upward trend in acute respiratory infections, with a significant rise in flu cases and an increasing number of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections.

Monitoring data shows an increase in flu virus detection rates in provinces in southern and northern China. From Dec 2 to 8, a total of 40 outbreaks of flu-like cases were reported.

The weekly flu monitoring report mentioned a recent fluctuating upward trend in HMPV positivity rates among cases aged 14 and below.

Doctors explained that HMPV is a virus that causes acute respiratory infections, primarily affecting infants, young children and individuals with weaker immune systems, potentially leading to bronchiolitis, asthma and pneumonia.