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<\/p>\nFears have risen that Britain could be hit by its own outbreak of China\u2019s \u201cmystery\u201d pneumonia.<\/p>\n
Officials in Beijing have sounded the alarm over an unusual spike in cases among children. They have ruled out a new virus and instead blamed it on a winter surge in respiratory illnesses, including a bug called mycoplasma pneumoniae.<\/p>\n
But an alarming surge of the \u201cmyco\u201d bug is sweeping the world with cases exploding in the Netherlands, Denmark and parts of the US.<\/p>\n
READ MORE: 'White lung syndrome' warning – five symptoms to look out for as child pneumonia cases soar<\/b><\/p>\n
For the latest news and developments on viruses from across the globe, click here.<\/i> <\/b><\/p>\n
Professor Ian Jones, a virologist at the University of Reading, said: "As we have a small physical break with Europe we might get away with it this season.<\/p>\n
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"The important point is that this sort of \u2018bounce back\u2019 should be expected and the public health system should be aware of it."<\/p>\n
The bacterial infection typically causes a flu-like illness, sometimes called \u201cwalking pneumonia\u201d because of its mildness, with children being particularly vulnerable.<\/p>\n
It comes as the Daily Star notes five key symptoms to look out for as the cases of child-oriented pneumonia continue to soar in parts of China, with hospitals in Beijing currently overrun.<\/p>\n
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White lung syndrome includes some awful symptoms which could prove far more common now cold weather is settling in, and may be confused with common cold and flu concerns. <\/p>\n
Fever, cough, fatigue, green mucus and shortness of breath were all highlighted by doctors as possible symptoms of the grim and mysterious pneumonia strain surging through China, which is currently reaching "epidemic" levels.<\/p>\n
The disease is currently more likely to affect children than anyone else but doctors are urging members of the public to stay wary and keep a tab on their developing symptoms. Doctors in Denmark believe the disease can be prevented with hand washing and staying home when sick. <\/p>\n
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