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From Shadows to Spotlight: The HMPV Concern in China



Human metapneumovirus or HMPV, virus causing upper and lower respiratory infection


As we enter the winter months, health officials are raising alarms about a surge in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in China. This respiratory virus, first identified in 2001, typically presents with flu-like symptoms and poses a particular risk to young children, the elderly, and other vulnerable populations. Reports indicate a troubling increase in hospitalizations, prompting comparisons to the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.


Understanding HMPV

HMPV is a common virus that can lead to respiratory infections. Symptoms often include cough, fever, and in some cases, it can escalate to more severe conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia. While most people recover without the need for medical intervention, the risk is heightened for those with weakened immune systems and for the very young and elderly.


Current Situation in China

Recent reports from state media have highlighted packed hospital waiting rooms across the country, where adults wearing masks are seen bringing in children for treatment. Unverified social media posts suggest that crematoriums and funeral homes are becoming overwhelmed, although it remains unclear whether these distressing images are specifically related to HMPV or other seasonal respiratory viruses.

In response to the outbreak, neighboring countries are closely monitoring the situation but have largely downplayed immediate concerns. For instance, Atul Goel from India’s Directorate General of Health Services reassured the public by likening HMPV to other common respiratory viruses that typically circulate during the winter months

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Expert Opinions

Kan Biao, head of China’s National Institute for Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, noted an increase in HMPV cases among children aged 14 and under. However, this critical information initially went unnoticed until social media reports began to circulate.

Mao Ning, a spokeswoman for China’s foreign ministry, emphasized that respiratory infections are common in winter and assured the public of the government’s commitment to health safety, stating it is safe to travel in China.


The Broader Context

The current situation has drawn inevitable parallels to the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak, particularly given the scrutiny that China faced regarding its initial response to the pandemic. The World Health Organization (WHO) has urged for greater transparency from China regarding data sharing, emphasizing that cooperation is crucial for preventing future health crises.

While HMPV can be concerning, especially for vulnerable populations, it is essential to remain informed and calm. As we monitor the situation, it is crucial to prioritize health and safety measures, including vaccination, hygiene practices, and staying informed through reliable sources. The ongoing response to HMPV and its implications for public health will continue to unfold, and we must remain vigilant as we navigate this winter season.


Article by Philip Sherwell



What is HMPV? Virus outbreak in China raises alarm

A computer illustration of the human metapneumovirus, which can develop into bronchitis or pneumonia
A computer illustration of the human metapneumovirus, which can develop into bronchitis or pneumonia

A viral infection with flu-like symptoms particularly dangerous for young children, the elderly and vulnerable groups is surging in China, prompting comparisons with the outbreak of Covid five winters ago.


State media reported that the country was experiencing an outbreak of human metapneumovirus (HMPV). Common symptoms include coughs and fevers, but it can develop into bronchitis or pneumonia.


Social media postings in recent days have showed packed hospital waiting rooms with mask-wearing adults bringing in children for treatment. Chinese-language websites based outside the country and opposed to the communist regime have carried unverified reports that crematoriums and funeral homes are being overwhelmed.


It was not clear whether the photographs and videos of hospitals showed patients with HMPV or other seasonal viruses, but they drew inevitable parallels with the early days of the then unknown Covid virus in late 2019 and early 2020.


Neighbouring countries said they were monitoring the spread of the respiratory virus, but played down initial causes for alarm.


Atul Goel, an official with India’s Directorate General of Health Services, urged people not to panic in a country that was one of the hardest hit by the coronavirus. “Metapneumovirus is like any other respiratory virus which causes the common cold, and in the very old and the very young it could cause flu-like symptoms,” he said.


Kan Biao, head of China’s National Institute for Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, said in a statement released on December 27 that the rate of HMPV among children aged 14 and under was increasing. But the announcement garnered little attention until social media reports of overwhelmed hospitals emerged.


Mao Ning, Beijing’s foreign ministry spokeswoman, said on Friday: “Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season. “I can assure you that the Chinese government cares about the health of Chinese citizens and foreigners coming to China. It is safe to travel in China.”


HMPV was first identified in 2001. There is no vaccine and treatment is focused on handling symptoms.


China was widely criticised for covering up details about the early stages of the Covid outbreak in the central city of Wuhan.


The World Health Organisation, which has not commented on the new HMPV outbreak, also came under fire for its initial response to Covid. Last week, it urged China to share Covid origins data.


Marking the fifth anniversary of authorities in Wuhan reporting a new “viral pneumonia” on December 31, 2019, the UN agency said: “We continue to call on China to share data and access so we can understand the origins of Covid-19. This is a moral and scientific imperative.


“Without transparency, sharing, and cooperation among countries, the world cannot adequately prevent and prepare for future epidemics and pandemics.”

Beijing has rejected the criticisms, insisting it shared information “‘without holding anything back”.


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