In a concerning development, the 'white lung syndrome' outbreak of pneumonia, which has been spreading rapidly in several parts of China, has now made its way to Ohio, becoming the first American location to report an outbreak of the illness. The outbreak has seen an 'extremely high' number of children being hospitalized, raising fears that hospitals in the country could be overwhelmed if the cases continue to rise.

The strain of pneumonia, which has been named 'white lung syndrome,' has already affected 142 pediatric cases in Warren County since August. The Warren County Health Department has confirmed that not only is the number of cases above average, but it also meets the Ohio Department of Health's definition of an outbreak.

While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that nationally the number of cases is not unusual, the spread of the outbreak has sparked concerns about its potential impact on the American healthcare system.

Health officials in Ohio are currently conducting an ongoing investigation into the outbreak. However, preliminary findings suggest that the illness is not a new disease but rather a manifestation of several common infections occurring simultaneously. Patients have tested positive for mycoplasma pneumonia, a bacterial lung infection that is resistant to antibiotics, as well as strep and adenovirus, which are normally benign infections.

The affected patients range in age from 3 to 8 years old. Various theories have been put forward to explain why children seem to be more susceptible to the illness. Some suggest that lockdown measures have weakened their immune systems, while others speculate that mask-wearing and school closures have left children more vulnerable to seasonal illnesses.

Reports indicate that bacterial respiratory infections typically experience periodic flare-ups, often following waves of flu or other viral illnesses. The Warren County Health District believes that the current spike in pneumonia cases represents a larger than usual occurrence of cases seen at one time rather than a completely new respiratory disease.

Doctors have noted that the most common symptoms of the illness include fever, cough, and fatigue. To reduce the risk of infection, individuals are advised to practice frequent handwashing, cover their mouths when coughing, and ensure they are up-to-date on vaccinations.

The increase in illnesses was initially noticed when schools in the county recorded higher than normal absences due to sickness. It is worth noting that Ohio is not the only region outside of China to report an outbreak, as the Netherlands and Denmark have also witnessed mysterious spikes in cases of 'walking pneumonia,' predominantly affecting younger children.

As the investigation continues and efforts to contain the outbreak intensify, health authorities are urging the public to take necessary precautions to reduce the chances of contracting or spreading the illness. The situation continues to be closely monitored for any further developments.