The Chinese mainland recorded 79,000 newly reported COVID-19 cases in June 2026, with overall reported case numbers showing an upward trend, according to figures published by the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC).
The China CDC data released on 8 July showed that June's total included 130 severe cases and one death (described as a patient with underlying illnesses who died with COVID-19 infection). Sentinel hospital monitoring also indicated a steady rise in the COVID-19 positivity rate among influenza-like illness cases in outpatient and emergency departments, from 2.9% in the first week of June to 6.4% in the last week.
The report said the dominant circulating strains are still Omicron subvariants NB.1.8.1 and its sublineages.
Hu Yang, a respiratory specialist at the Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital affiliated with Tongji University, said COVID-19 infections often show a small peak in June to August, even if the overall situation remains under control and does not necessarily indicate a large-scale outbreak. He warned against the misconception that "high temperatures mean there is no virus" and advised mask-wearing in crowded places and on public transport.
According to the report, Hu attributed recurring summer upticks to several factors:
- Waning immunity over time, with protection built after autumn and winter infections weakening by the following summer.
- Ongoing viral mutation, with new dominant variants emerging roughly every three to six months, increases immune escape and makes it harder for prior infection or vaccination to protect against reinfection.
- Increased summer travel and gatherings, especially during school holidays, raising contact frequency.
- More time spent in enclosed, air-conditioned indoor environments, which can reduce ventilation and may dry respiratory mucosa, potentially lowering local defenses.
Hu said June's increase shows similarities to patterns seen in 2024, but at a much lower absolute level, and that whether the trend will accelerate will depend on July data.
Hu recommended that the public wear masks in crowded settings and on public transport; wash hands frequently; avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth with unclean hands; and that higher-risk groups such as older adults and people with chronic illnesses consider vaccination according to guidance. For symptoms such as fever or cough, he advised appropriate symptomatic treatment, rest at home, and seeking medical care when necessary.
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