Respiratory illnesses are alarmingly on the rise again in China, overwhelming hospitals and straining the healthcare system, reports suggest. Health experts are particularly concerned about the spread of a new respiratory virus, Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), across various Asian countries. Indian news outlet NDTV has reported on the issue.
China’s health authorities have confirmed that the virus has spread primarily in the northern regions of the country, with the area being most affected, according to the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC). While HMPV can infect people of all ages, children appear to be the most vulnerable.
Despite the severity reflected in reports shared on social media, neither Chinese authorities nor the World Health Organization (WHO) have declared an emergency yet.
Although HMPV has been known for almost two decades, there is still no effective vaccine for it. Preventive measures and increased awareness remain the only defenses against the virus for now.
Experts have advised following public health guidelines to reduce transmission, such as proper handwashing and wearing masks. Authorities have urged the general public to adhere to these measures.
Meanwhile, Japan’s health department is actively responding to the situation. Following an influenza outbreak, thousands of patients have been reported in the country. Local media reported that, as of December 15, nearly 94,000 patients across 5,000 hospitals and clinics sought treatment for flu infections. This season, the total number of infections in Japan has reached 718,000.
According to China CDC, HMPV is an RNA virus that belongs to the Metapneumovirus genus of the Pneumoviridae family. It was first identified by Dutch researchers in 2001. Serological studies have shown that it has been a common respiratory pathogen globally for over 60 years.
Children, immunocompromised individuals, and the elderly are at greater risk of being affected by this virus. Those with pre-existing health conditions may face complications, potentially leading to fatal outcomes. HMPV generally causes symptoms such as a runny nose, cough, fever, and nasal congestion. However, in some cases, the infection can lead to bronchitis and pneumonia.
Currently, there is no vaccine or specific treatment available for this virus. Treatment mainly focuses on alleviating symptoms.