China's Ministry of Health has ordered local health officials to strengthen monitoring and reporting of flu cases, pneumonia with unknown causes and human infections of bird flu.

Control of respiratory disease outbreaks must be particularly tightened in public places, including schools, it said in a statement.

The ministry also called for prevention and control of non-occupational carbon monoxide poisoning, and more publicity to raise public awareness.

It warned that respiratory diseases were more common during winter.

Last month, China reported 287 public health emergencies resulting in 47 deaths, according to the ministry.

A total of 8,398 people were affected by the emergencies, 196 cases less than the previous month.

The ministry reported 37 deaths in October.

Source: Xinhua