January 6, 2025 – China is currently experiencing a surge in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a common respiratory virus that primarily affects children and the elderly. The increase in HMPV cases has prompted other countries, including Vietnam and India, to monitor the potential spread, while Malaysia has reported a 45% rise in HMPV cases in 2024 compared to the previous year.
Despite the surge, experts emphasize that HMPV is not a new virus and is already present in many countries. Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, former chief scientist of the World Health Organization, stated that HMPV causes mostly mild respiratory infections and is unlikely to lead to a pandemic on the scale of Covid-19. She advised people to take normal precautions, such as wearing masks, washing hands, avoiding crowds, and consulting a doctor if severe symptoms occur.
HMPV, discovered in 2001, spreads through droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes, close personal contact, and touching contaminated surfaces. It can cause severe respiratory disease, particularly in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Winter and spring are peak seasons for HMPV.
In China, authorities have not reported specific figures but noted that HMPV cases among those under 14 years old rose in late December 2024, particularly in the colder northern provinces such as Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei. Experts attribute the current surge to the influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and HMPV, which are typical pathogens during the flu season.
Public vigilance in China has increased, with more people wearing masks on public transport. However, there is no widespread fear of an HMPV outbreak. Visits to local hospitals in Beijing on January 6 showed a steady flow of patients but no overwhelming queues, and same-day consultations were possible.
The Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the incidence of HMPV rose by 0.1 percentage point over the previous week to 6.2%, making it one of the top three outpatient flu-like illnesses. However, influenza remains the most infectious seasonal disease.
Chinese CDC researcher Zheng Lishu reassured the public that HMPV is not a new virus strain and should not cause alarm. Most HMPV infections manifest as self-limiting diseases, with symptoms easing in about a week.
Infectious disease expert Hsu Li Yang from the NUS Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health in Singapore noted that while the recent rise in HMPV cases in China is unusual, it is not out of the ordinary for this time of year. The virus is well-known to cause respiratory tract infections, especially during winter.
In response to the growing rate of acute respiratory infections, Chinese authorities have advised citizens to wash their hands frequently and avoid crowded places.
Additional reporting by Debarshi Dasgupta in New Delhi.