UditVani, NewsDesk: China is currently grappling with an outbreak of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), five years after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The virus is spreading rapidly, with a significant increase in cases reported, particularly among children under 14 in northern provinces.
This has raised concerns and speculation about whether the outbreak could impact India or evoke memories of the COVID-19 crisis.
Reports and social media posts highlight overwhelmed hospitals and crematoriums, with videos showing crowded medical facilities. Claims on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) suggest multiple viruses, including Influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and COVID-19, are contributing to the health crisis. A popular post by the handle “SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19)” described a surge in infections, particularly among children, with “white lung” pneumonia cases straining healthcare resources. However, unverified claims about a state of emergency in China remain speculative.
HMPV typically causes flu-like symptoms but can mimic COVID-19 in some cases. Health authorities are monitoring the situation closely as infections rise. In response, China’s disease control authority has initiated a pilot monitoring system for pneumonia of unknown origin. This system aims to improve preparedness and establish protocols for handling novel pathogens, addressing gaps in readiness that existed during the initial COVID-19 outbreak.
The National Disease Control and Prevention Administration of China is developing procedures for laboratories to report cases and for disease control agencies to verify and manage them. Data from December 16 to 22 shows an upward trend in acute respiratory infections, underscoring the need for vigilance during the winter months.
What is HMPV?
HMPV usually causes symptoms similar to a cold. Most of the cases of HMPV are mild, but young children, adults over the age of 65 and people with a weakened immune system are at a higher risk for serious illness.
The symptoms include- cough, fever, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, wheezing, shortness of breath, and rash.
HMPV transmits through direct contact with someone who has it or from touching things contaminated with the virus.
2025 is not the first time that HMPV cases have been reported. Around 2011-12, several HMPV cases had been reported in USA, Canada and Europe.
Precautions to be observed
To avoid infection, certain precautions should be observed. Wash hands frequently with soap or use a hand sanitizer. Cover your nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing to prevent the spread of germs. If you are unwell and cannot avoid being around others, wearing a mask is essential. Avoid touching your face, particularly your eyes, nose, and mouth, unless your hands are clean. Additionally, refrain from sharing food or eating from the same utensils to minimize the risk of transmission.
Doctors treat HMPV with the following methods- oxygen therapy, IV fluids, and corticosteroids.
China is likely to be affected by various respiratory infectious diseases in winter and spring, Kan Biao, another official, said at the news conference. He said without elaborating that the overall number of cases this year would be smaller than last year.
Recent cases detected include pathogens such as the rhinovirus and human metapneumovirus, with cases of the human metapneumovirus among people under the age of 14 showing an upward trend, especially in northern provinces.
उदित वाणी 
टेलीग्राम पर भी उपलब्ध है। यहां क्लिक करके आप सब्सक्राइब कर सकते हैं।