The UK has seen a significant rise in employees taking sick leave due to respiratory illness. The number has risen by 10 million; what used to be 6 million in 2020, the year the world witnessed the pandemic. The stark rise in the numbers is not just concerning but rather alarming, as questions have been raised about the air quality and the little that is done to minimise the irritants in the air.
Speaking to news outlet The Times, Jonathan Blades, head of policy at Asthma + Lung UK, said, &ldquo;At the heart of the issue is poor care, which is leading to worsening health and a spiral of repeat emergency visits to hospital.&rdquo;
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Sarah Jones, who was also quoted in the publication, mentioned how she has been suffering from asthma since she was 16 and now finds it &ldquo;completely out of control&rdquo;. She was pointed out how she had to take six months off work in the last 18 months due to her severe illness. And now Jones is forced to work from home. Her flare-ups have been getting worse and triggering her asthma.
She added, &ldquo;I went from being incredibly active and going on holidays, walking miles a day and taking my little girl to the park. I used to swim a lot, and I enjoyed concerts and holidays, but now I can&rsquo;t do any of that.&rdquo;
In response to Conservative Lord Kamall's request for data on workdays lost due to asthma, the ONS data was shared, which showed these staggering numbers on respiratory illness and not specifically on asthma. Labour's Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent wrote, "Unfortunately, we do not collect information regarding the type of sickness at a level of detail to identify those suffering from asthma specifically, but we can provide the number of working days lost due to respiratory conditions."
<figure class="image"><img alt="ONS data1" src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1077x634/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/04/04/4cvIivtgTsQYLqAeeh9Z.png" style="width: 1077px;">
<figcaption>Photograph: (Credit: ONS data/parliament.uk)</figcaption>
</figure>
&nbsp;
In the data shared between 2012 and 2022, only 2017 saw the lowest number, i.e., 3.7 million. After 2020, it only shot up for the worse.

The UK has seen a significant rise in employees taking sick leave due to respiratory illness. The number has risen by 10 million; what used to be 6 million in 2020, the year the world witnessed the pandemic.

The UK has seen a significant rise in employees taking sick leave due to respiratory illness. The number has risen by 10 million; what used to be 6 million in 2020, the year the world witnessed the pandemic. The stark rise in the numbers is not just concerning but rather alarming, as questions have been raised about the air quality and the little that is done to minimise the irritants in the air. Speaking to news outlet The Times, Jonathan Blades, head of policy at Asthma + Lung UK, said, “At the heart of the issue is poor care, which is leading to worsening health and a spiral of repeat emergency visits to hospital.” Also read: Did you know? Air Pollution could heighten risk of depression Sarah Jones, who was also quoted in the publication, mentioned how she has been suffering from asthma since she was 16 and now finds it “completely out of control”. She was pointed out how she had to take six months off work in the last 18 months due to her severe illness. And now Jones is forced to work from home. Her flare-ups have been getting worse and triggering her asthma. She added, “I went from being incredibly active and going on holidays, walking miles a day and taking my little girl to the park. I used to swim a lot, and I enjoyed concerts and holidays, but now I can’t do any of that.” In response to Conservative Lord Kamall's request for data on workdays lost due to asthma, the ONS data was shared, which showed these staggering numbers on respiratory illness and not specifically on asthma. Labour's Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent wrote, "Unfortunately, we do not collect information regarding the type of sickness at a level of detail to identify those suffering from asthma specifically, but we can provide the number of working days lost due to respiratory conditions." Photograph: (Credit: ONS data/parliament.uk) In the data shared between 2012 and 2022, only 2017 saw the lowest number, i.e., 3.7 million. After 2020, it only shot up for the worse.

6 million during pandemic, 16 million working days lost in UK due to respiratory illness in 2022

Asthma is a chronic lung disease affecting people of all ages worldwide. It is a condition in which the airways swell and become narrow, and air pollution makes it even worse.&nbsp;

In some cases, asthma may produce extra mucus and create difficulties in breathing. It interferes with daily activities and&nbsp;may become a major issue that could lead to a life-threatening asthma attack.&nbsp;

The symptoms of asthma can be controlled, but as per experts, the disease can't be cured as it often changes over time. Hence taking precautionary measures is extremely important.&nbsp;

WION reached out to Dr Vivek Singh, the Director of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine at Medanta in Gurugram, to get an insight into how increasing pollution levels are contributing to asthma exacerbations and effective management strategies.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sydney-and-delhis-air-quality-on-par-after-duck-creek-pilliga-forest-bushfire-671326">Sydney and Delhi’s air quality on par after Duck Creek, Pilliga Forest bushfire</a>&nbsp;

Taking about the condition in India's capital New Delhi, Dr Singh said, "The high level of pollution affects everyone, but it's particularly tough on those with respiratory conditions, the elderly, and kids. However, individuals with respiratory conditions, the elderly, and children are especially vulnerable to its adverse effects."&nbsp;

In New Delhi, the recent levels of pollution have reached alarming heights, raising serious concerns for the well-being of the residents. As winter descends upon the region, the situation becomes worse. The pollution is caused&nbsp;by a combination of factors, including stubble burning, atmospheric changes, and more.&nbsp;

Airborne particles or pollutants found in haze, smoke, and airborne dust, pose serious air quality issues. And while air quality affects everyone, to some, the effects are far more adverse than others.&nbsp;

A report published by the World Health Organization (WHO) on May 4, 2023, revealed that asthma affected an estimated 262 million people in 2019 and caused 455,000 deaths. It stated that most asthma-related deaths occur in low- and lower-middle-income countries, where under-diagnosis and under-treatment is a challenge.&nbsp;

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<h2>Impact of air pollution on individuals with respiratory illnesses&nbsp;</h2>

Levels of harmful substances, including particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide, increase with a rise in pollution of air.&nbsp;

Dr Arunesh Kumar, Senior Consultant and Head, of Respiratory Medicine, Paras Health, Gurugram, told WION that when a person inhales these dangerous particles and compounds, it can cause or worsen pre-existing respiratory illness.&nbsp;

Dr Kumar said, "The hazardous elements of air pollution are especially dangerous for respiratory conditions such as interstitial lung disease, asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). For those with respiratory illness, breathing becomes more difficult as a result of the inflammation and irritation caused in the airways."&nbsp;

Gaseous pollutants&nbsp;can aggravate respiratory symptoms, including dyspnoea and coughing. He said, "Long-term exposure to these gases can damage the airways, increasing the risk of respiratory infections in people."&nbsp;

<h2>What should be the preventive approach?&nbsp;</h2>

Dr Arjun Khanna, Head of the Department and Senior Consultant, Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, Haryana told WION that the first preventive approach should be to ensure that you are able to identify as well as avoid possible triggers.&nbsp;

"Having an action plan ready in consultation with your doctor, an inhaler by your side – specifically in the case of asthmatics and taking regular inhalation therapy as prescribed by your doctor is critical," Dr Khanna added.&nbsp;

"To further manage your condition more effectively, monitoring your lung health with a peak flow meter can be an added layer of precaution," he added.&nbsp;

He stressed that basic measures like trying to maintain healthy air quality in your home, reducing time spent outdoors, reducing strenuous, outdoor exercise, and maintaining a safe distance from pollution hotspots can help manage conditions as well.&nbsp;

Asthma is a chronic lung disease affecting people of all ages worldwide. It is a condition in which the airways swell and become narrow, and air pollution makes it even worse.

Asthma is a chronic lung disease affecting people of all ages worldwide. It is a condition in which the airways swell and become narrow, and air pollution makes it even worse. In some cases, asthma may produce extra mucus and create difficulties in breathing. It interferes with daily activities and may become a major issue that could lead to a life-threatening asthma attack. The symptoms of asthma can be controlled, but as per experts, the disease can't be cured as it often changes over time. Hence taking precautionary measures is extremely important. WION reached out to Dr Vivek Singh, the Director of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine at Medanta in Gurugram, to get an insight into how increasing pollution levels are contributing to asthma exacerbations and effective management strategies. Also read: Sydney and Delhi’s air quality on par after Duck Creek, Pilliga Forest bushfire Taking about the condition in India's capital New Delhi, Dr Singh said, "The high level of pollution affects everyone, but it's particularly tough on those with respiratory conditions, the elderly, and kids. However, individuals with respiratory conditions, the elderly, and children are especially vulnerable to its adverse effects." In New Delhi, the recent levels of pollution have reached alarming heights, raising serious concerns for the well-being of the residents. As winter descends upon the region, the situation becomes worse. The pollution is caused by a combination of factors, including stubble burning, atmospheric changes, and more. Airborne particles or pollutants found in haze, smoke, and airborne dust, pose serious air quality issues. And while air quality affects everyone, to some, the effects are far more adverse than others. A report published by the World Health Organization (WHO) on May 4, 2023, revealed that asthma affected an estimated 262 million people in 2019 and caused 455,000 deaths. It stated that most asthma-related deaths occur in low- and lower-middle-income countries, where under-diagnosis and under-treatment is a challenge. Also read: Climate financing: Progress made at COP28, but is it enough? Impact of air pollution on individuals with respiratory illnesses Levels of harmful substances, including particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide, increase with a rise in pollution of air. Dr Arunesh Kumar, Senior Consultant and Head, of Respiratory Medicine, Paras Health, Gurugram, told WION that when a person inhales these dangerous particles and compounds, it can cause or worsen pre-existing respiratory illness. Dr Kumar said, "The hazardous elements of air pollution are especially dangerous for respiratory conditions such as interstitial lung disease, asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). For those with respiratory illness, breathing becomes more difficult as a result of the inflammation and irritation caused in the airways." Gaseous pollutants can aggravate respiratory symptoms, including dyspnoea and coughing. He said, "Long-term exposure to these gases can damage the airways, increasing the risk of respiratory infections in people." What should be the preventive approach? Dr Arjun Khanna, Head of the Department and Senior Consultant, Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, Haryana told WION that the first preventive approach should be to ensure that you are able to identify as well as avoid possible triggers. "Having an action plan ready in consultation with your doctor, an inhaler by your side – specifically in the case of asthmatics and taking regular inhalation therapy as prescribed by your doctor is critical," Dr Khanna added. "To further manage your condition more effectively, monitoring your lung health with a peak flow meter can be an added layer of precaution," he added. He stressed that basic measures like trying to maintain healthy air quality in your home, reducing time spent outdoors, reducing strenuous, outdoor exercise, and maintaining a safe distance from pollution hotspots can help manage conditions as well.

Pollution makes respiratory illnesses worse in winter season: What should be preventive approach?

China is witnessing a “fluctuating downtrend” in respiratory illness cases among children. The announcement was made by the National Health Commission during a press briefing in Beijing on Friday, a month after grappling with rising pneumonia cases.

The previously increased caseload at some large children's speciality hospitals and general hospitals has recently shown a degree of decline, Mi Feng, a spokesperson for the National Health Commission, said at a press conference, according to state-run Xinhua News.

He added that outpatient numbers for respiratory diseases at fever clinics and emergency departments have remained relatively stable.

<h2>Overall medical systems not impacted&nbsp;</h2>

“As some patients have been redirected to primary healthcare institutions, the overall regular medical services across the country have not been impacted,” he was quoted as saying.

The outbreak was primarily reported in Northern China with no explanation initially provided for the sudden spike in cases.

The Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention and Beijing Children’s Hospital informed the WHO that there had been an increase in outpatient visits and hospitalizations due to the spread of mycoplasma pneumonia, respiratory syncytial virus, adenovirus, and influenza.

It was later clarified that the source of illness was common pathogens, therefore, there should be no concern.

<h2>WHO had asked for report&nbsp;</h2>

Concerns were raised as the spike in cases came earlier than what has been experienced in the previous years, but isn’t unexpected given the lifting of Covid curbs, the WHO had said after a teleconference between health officials.

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The uptick in cases gained worldwide attention after the WHO asked China for more information, citing a report by the Programme for Monitoring Emerging Diseases (ProMED) on clusters of undiagnosed pneumonia in children.

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Some social media users have also posted photos of children receiving intravenous drips in hospital, while media in cities such as Xian in the northwest have posted videos of crowded hospitals, fanning concerns potential strains on the healthcare system.

(With inputs from agencies)

China is witnessing a “fluctuating downtrend” in respiratory illness cases among children. The announcement was made by the National Health Commission during a press briefing in Beijing on Friday, a month after grappling with rising pneumonia cases.

China is witnessing a “fluctuating downtrend” in respiratory illness cases among children. The announcement was made by the National Health Commission during a press briefing in Beijing on Friday, a month after grappling with rising pneumonia cases. The previously increased caseload at some large children's speciality hospitals and general hospitals has recently shown a degree of decline, Mi Feng, a spokesperson for the National Health Commission, said at a press conference, according to state-run Xinhua News. He added that outpatient numbers for respiratory diseases at fever clinics and emergency departments have remained relatively stable. Overall medical systems not impacted “As some patients have been redirected to primary healthcare institutions, the overall regular medical services across the country have not been impacted,” he was quoted as saying. The outbreak was primarily reported in Northern China with no explanation initially provided for the sudden spike in cases. The Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention and Beijing Children’s Hospital informed the WHO that there had been an increase in outpatient visits and hospitalizations due to the spread of mycoplasma pneumonia, respiratory syncytial virus, adenovirus, and influenza. It was later clarified that the source of illness was common pathogens, therefore, there should be no concern. WHO had asked for report Concerns were raised as the spike in cases came earlier than what has been experienced in the previous years, but isn’t unexpected given the lifting of Covid curbs, the WHO had said after a teleconference between health officials. Also read | Might be uncomfortable: Israel reacts to Palestinian men stripped to underwear after arrest The uptick in cases gained worldwide attention after the WHO asked China for more information, citing a report by the Programme for Monitoring Emerging Diseases (ProMED) on clusters of undiagnosed pneumonia in children. Also read | Russian intelligence says cracked network of Ukrainian agents in Crimea Some social media users have also posted photos of children receiving intravenous drips in hospital, while media in cities such as Xian in the northwest have posted videos of crowded hospitals, fanning concerns potential strains on the healthcare system. (With inputs from agencies)

China witnessing 'fluctuating downtrend' of respiratory illnesses among children

What’s causing severe respiratory illnesses in dogs? Veterinarians say there could be several reasons for the uptick in cases of atypical canine respiratory disease, including declines in vaccination rates.

What's causing mysterious respiratory illness in dogs?

The Indian government has asked all the states and union territories to closely monitor the respiratory illness cases among children and adolescents in order to analyse its seriousness. In the aftermath of an alarming situation in China where a sudden surge of respiratory illnesses among children has been reported, India has asked the authorities to report all cases of serious respiratory illnesses — Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI), the Hindustan Times reported citing people familiar with the matter.&nbsp;

As quoted, a senior central government official said on condition of anonymity that "this is being done purely as a precautionary measure; so far no red flags have been seen but it is important to step up the vigil".&nbsp;

"There is already a surveillance system in place for tracking respiratory illnesses owing to COVID-19, which will be made use of for further surveillance. As has been said before, the risk for India continues to remain low," he said as quoted.&nbsp;

Dr Neeraj Kumar Gupta, Pulmonary Department Head at Safadarjung Hospital, told ANI recently that the latest respiratory illness outbreak in China is no threat to India and mentioned that "we are well prepared".&nbsp;

"I don't personally see any threat to India because we are well prepared. Even if it is a novel virus, we are well prepared because we have our past experience with us. Even the health ministry has issued guidelines so remain vigilant on this," Dr Gupta told the news agency.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/another-covid-like-scare-from-china-experts-tell-wion-what-exactly-it-is-662463">Another Covid-like scare from China? Experts tell WION what exactly it is</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Covid-like scare again?&nbsp;</h2>

As per recent reports, China is reporting a large number of respiratory infections, particularly among children, and hospital wards are reportedly running full. So far, there's no confirmation of deaths, but the trends have triggered a scare similar to the early days of the coronavirus pandemic, which killed millions and left a million others with symptoms of long Covid.&nbsp;

On November 25, Dr Sushila Kataria, who is the Senior Director of Internal Medicine at Medanta in Gurugram, told WION that the recent cases in China prompted concerns "reminiscent of the events in November and December 2019".&nbsp;

She said that the Chinese government has clarified that these cases are attributed to known pathogens such as bacteria and viruses, including the influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus, some Covid cases, and some mycoplasma cases.&nbsp;

"Given that the incidence of pneumonia typically increases during winter, it is hoped that this surge is seasonal," Dr Kataria said.&nbsp;

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Watch:&nbsp;Pneumonia worry in the Netherlands&nbsp;

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<h2>Similar cases in Europe&nbsp;</h2>

A report in The Messenger published on November 28 stated that the Netherlands is experiencing a rise in pneumonia cases among children as it becomes the second nation besides China to report an outbreak of such cases.&nbsp;

The Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research (NIVEL), a research institute in Utrecht, reported that 80 of every 100,000 children between ages five and 14 came down with pneumonia last week.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Indian government has asked all the states and union territories to closely monitor the respiratory illness cases among children and adolescents in order to analyse its seriousness.

The Indian government has asked all the states and union territories to closely monitor the respiratory illness cases among children and adolescents in order to analyse its seriousness. In the aftermath of an alarming situation in China where a sudden surge of respiratory illnesses among children has been reported, India has asked the authorities to report all cases of serious respiratory illnesses — Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI), the Hindustan Times reported citing people familiar with the matter. As quoted, a senior central government official said on condition of anonymity that "this is being done purely as a precautionary measure; so far no red flags have been seen but it is important to step up the vigil". "There is already a surveillance system in place for tracking respiratory illnesses owing to COVID-19, which will be made use of for further surveillance. As has been said before, the risk for India continues to remain low," he said as quoted. Dr Neeraj Kumar Gupta, Pulmonary Department Head at Safadarjung Hospital, told ANI recently that the latest respiratory illness outbreak in China is no threat to India and mentioned that "we are well prepared". "I don't personally see any threat to India because we are well prepared. Even if it is a novel virus, we are well prepared because we have our past experience with us. Even the health ministry has issued guidelines so remain vigilant on this," Dr Gupta told the news agency. Also read: Another Covid-like scare from China? Experts tell WION what exactly it is Covid-like scare again? As per recent reports, China is reporting a large number of respiratory infections, particularly among children, and hospital wards are reportedly running full. So far, there's no confirmation of deaths, but the trends have triggered a scare similar to the early days of the coronavirus pandemic, which killed millions and left a million others with symptoms of long Covid. On November 25, Dr Sushila Kataria, who is the Senior Director of Internal Medicine at Medanta in Gurugram, told WION that the recent cases in China prompted concerns "reminiscent of the events in November and December 2019". She said that the Chinese government has clarified that these cases are attributed to known pathogens such as bacteria and viruses, including the influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus, some Covid cases, and some mycoplasma cases. "Given that the incidence of pneumonia typically increases during winter, it is hoped that this surge is seasonal," Dr Kataria said. Also read: Psychological impact of Israel-Hamas war: Use of anti-depressants on the rise in Israel Watch: Pneumonia worry in the Netherlands × Similar cases in Europe A report in The Messenger published on November 28 stated that the Netherlands is experiencing a rise in pneumonia cases among children as it becomes the second nation besides China to report an outbreak of such cases. The Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research (NIVEL), a research institute in Utrecht, reported that 80 of every 100,000 children between ages five and 14 came down with pneumonia last week. (With inputs from agencies)

India closely monitoring respiratory illness in children amid scare from China

The World Health Organization (WHO) has examined an alarming situation in China as the nation saw a sudden surge of respiratory illnesses among children. The UN health body has asked China to provide disease data, but Beijing on Friday (Nov 24) claimed that no unusual or novel pathogens had been detected.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has examined an alarming situation in China as the nation saw a sudden surge of respiratory illnesses among children. The UN health body has asked China to provide disease data, but Beijing on Friday (Nov 24) claimed that no unusual or novel pathogens had been detected. The cases among children came as a scare as the world is still recovering from the effects of coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, which killed millions and left a million others with symptoms of long Covid. The first known case of Covid was reported in China towards the end of 2019, but the exact origin of the virus was never identified in the absence of lack of proper and accurate data. Also read: India is 'closely monitoring' China's influenza outbreak amid mild Covid scare When the virus started to spread, it was declared a public health emergency of international concern in January 2020. After an uncontrolled spread of the virus, the outbreak became a pandemic in a few weeks time. Health experts have often said that the Covid pandemic was not a one-off thing, something like that may happen again and the world should be prepared for it. But no one said exactly when. And the recent reports of an increase in "influenza-like illness" in China since mid-October have scared people globally. What do we know about the respiratory illness in China? The WHO said Thursday (Nov 23) that Chinese authorities had responded, advising "that there has been no detection of any unusual or novel pathogens or unusual clinical presentations, including in Beijing and Liaoning". China's National Health Commission told reporters last week that the respiratory illness spike was due to the lifting of the Covid measures and the circulation of known pathogens, namely influenza and common bacterial infections that affect children, including mycoplasma pneumonia. To know more about the situation WION reached out to health experts. Dr Sushila Kataria, who is the Senior Director of Internal Medicine at Medanta in Gurugram, said that the recent cases in China prompted concerns "reminiscent of the events in November and December 2019". She said that the Chinese government has clarified that these cases are attributed to known pathogens such as bacteria and viruses, including the influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus, some Covid cases, and some mycoplasma cases. "Given that the incidence of pneumonia typically increases during winter, it is hoped that this surge is seasonal," Dr Kataria said. Also read: China: Another pneumonia 'epidemic' alarms WHO nearly four years since Covid was first detected What are the common symptoms? Dr Himanshu Batra, who is a consultant in Pediatrics at HCMCT Manipal Hospital in New Delhi's Dwarka, said that pneumonia is a respiratory infection of the lungs. The common symptoms of pneumonia are fever, fast breathing, poor appetite, vomiting, and coughing, which may produce greenish, yellow or even bloody mucus. There are some cases of atypical pneumonia, fever gradually increases, and coughing is prominent. Experts then go for a chest X-ray and a few blood tests. Dr Batra said that what is happening in China is that a lot of children are getting hospitalised because of pneumonia. "The organism they have identified looks like it is Mycoplasma pneumonia," he said, further adding that it is usually seen mostly in children who are "more than five years old, school-age children, not in small infants and younger children". WHO has urged people to take preventative measures, including getting vaccinated, keeping distance from sick people and wearing masks. Dr Ritesh Yadav, consultant in Internal Medicine at Paras Health in Gurugram, responded to the WHO process, as he said: "The WHO routinely seeks clarity on infectious clusters worldwide, yet public appeals indicate potential concerns over transparency." Watch this report: × What are the risks? Will it wreak havoc in India? The WHO report stated that the Chinese government has ruled out the presence of any new viruses or bacteria. While reacting to the report, Dr Kataria said that "there is no immediate risk of the situation spreading globally or reaching India. While there is a sense of reassurance, it is important to remain cautious". She also said that in India, there may be an increase in influenza cases and it is advised to "prioritise influenza vaccination". She also suggested consistently practising cough etiquette to mitigate potential risks. Dr Kataria added, "Vigilance remains crucial despite the current understanding of the situation." Meanwhile, Dr Yadav said that despite concerns, "restraint is crucial before sounding alarm bells". He said that "as we await official confirmation, taking proactive measures remains paramount". "The prospect of a similar seasonal trend in India necessitates caution which includes: mask-wearing, vaccination for the vulnerable, maintaining distance, hand hygiene, and home isolation for the unwell," Dr Yadav added.

Another Covid-like scare from China? Experts tell WION what exactly it is

Dogs in the United States are suffering from a mysterious respiratory illness in several states. Local reports have mentioned that it can be fatal as this condition has killed some dogs already.&nbsp;

The veterinarians are looking to find answers and they also alerted the pet owners to be vigilant and take basic precautions to keep the pets healthy.&nbsp;

A report by the Associated Press mentioned that Oregon, Colorado, and New Hampshire have all experienced cases of the infection, which has caused long-term respiratory problems and pneumonia and is resistant to medications.&nbsp;

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The reports have said that symptoms of respiratory illness in dogs include coughing, sneezing, nasal or eye discharge and lethargy.&nbsp;

The report said that in some of the cases, the pneumonia progressed quickly which made dogs very sick within 24 to 36 hours.&nbsp;

Since mid-August, the Oregon Department of Agriculture has reported more than 200 cases of the disease.&nbsp;

The department has also urged pet owners to contact their veterinarian if their dog becomes ill, and it has directed state vets to report cases as quickly as possible.&nbsp;

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<h2>Cases not 'slowing down'</h2>

US-based Today reported that the illness may not respond to typical treatment, such as antibiotics, which can leave the dog struggling to breathe and with severe pneumonia.&nbsp;

Dr Lindsey Ganzer, veterinarian and CEO at North Springs Veterinary Referral Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado, told TODAY.com: "It seems to happen very, very quickly — to go from this cough that’s just won’t go away ... and then all of a sudden they develop this pneumonia."&nbsp;

As per the report, Dr Ganzer has estimated that her hospital has seen close to 30 dogs with the condition since the middle of October. She further mentioned that the cases are "really not slowing down".&nbsp;

Another expert, Dr Kurt Williams, who is the director of Oregon Veterinary Diagnostics Lab, told TODAY.com that it's not a time for dog owners to "become paralyzed with fear".&nbsp;

"I think concern is fine," he said.&nbsp;

Dr Williams, who has been researching the illness for the past few weeks, further added that dog owners may want to consider taking precautions to prevent illness.&nbsp;

He advised that the owners can avoid scenarios with other dogs and make sure dogs are up to date on vaccinations.&nbsp;

Dogs in the United States are suffering from a mysterious respiratory illness in several states. Local reports have mentioned that it can be fatal as this condition has killed some dogs already.

Dogs in the United States are suffering from a mysterious respiratory illness in several states. Local reports have mentioned that it can be fatal as this condition has killed some dogs already. The veterinarians are looking to find answers and they also alerted the pet owners to be vigilant and take basic precautions to keep the pets healthy. A report by the Associated Press mentioned that Oregon, Colorado, and New Hampshire have all experienced cases of the infection, which has caused long-term respiratory problems and pneumonia and is resistant to medications. Also read: Colorado Judge rules Trump can stay on Presidential primary ballot despite Capitol attack incitement The reports have said that symptoms of respiratory illness in dogs include coughing, sneezing, nasal or eye discharge and lethargy. The report said that in some of the cases, the pneumonia progressed quickly which made dogs very sick within 24 to 36 hours. Since mid-August, the Oregon Department of Agriculture has reported more than 200 cases of the disease. The department has also urged pet owners to contact their veterinarian if their dog becomes ill, and it has directed state vets to report cases as quickly as possible. Also read: Trump civil fraud trial: Ex-president launches tirade against clerk soon after gag order paused Cases not 'slowing down' US-based Today reported that the illness may not respond to typical treatment, such as antibiotics, which can leave the dog struggling to breathe and with severe pneumonia. Dr Lindsey Ganzer, veterinarian and CEO at North Springs Veterinary Referral Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado, told TODAY.com: "It seems to happen very, very quickly — to go from this cough that’s just won’t go away ... and then all of a sudden they develop this pneumonia." As per the report, Dr Ganzer has estimated that her hospital has seen close to 30 dogs with the condition since the middle of October. She further mentioned that the cases are "really not slowing down". Another expert, Dr Kurt Williams, who is the director of Oregon Veterinary Diagnostics Lab, told TODAY.com that it's not a time for dog owners to "become paralyzed with fear". "I think concern is fine," he said. Dr Williams, who has been researching the illness for the past few weeks, further added that dog owners may want to consider taking precautions to prevent illness. He advised that the owners can avoid scenarios with other dogs and make sure dogs are up to date on vaccinations.

Mysterious respiratory illness plaguing dogs in several US states

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