What is China’s new virus, the HMPV Virus? Respiratory diseases, including human metapneumovirus (HMPV), are increasing in China. According to social media reports, the virus is spreading rapidly. Some people claim that crowds are being seen at hospitals and crematoriums. Social media users are claiming the presence of many viruses, including influenza A, HMPV, mycoplasma pneumonia,and COVID-19. The HMPV virus spreading in China matches the symptoms of flu and COVID-19. Health officials are keeping a close watch on it.
What isthe HMPV virus?
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is an RNA virus belonging to the Pneumoviridae family. It was first discovered by Dutch researchers in 2001. This virus mainly causes respiratory infections and spreads through coughing or sneezing. It can also spread rapidly by coming in contact with infected people. Its infection period is 3 to 5 days and it is most commonly found in winter and spring.
10 important things related to the HMPV virus spread in China
- Spread and concern: The spread of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China has raised health concerns around the world. Its symptoms are flu-like and it resembles COVID-19, which has increased the concern even more.
- Social response: Photos and videos of people wearing masks in Chinese hospitals are going viral on social media, bringing back memories of the COVID outbreak five years ago. Like COVID, the HMPV outbreak has also raised concerns about a possible global pandemic.
- China’s official statement: China has issued a press statement to allay such concerns. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said that winter respiratory infection outbreaks are normal and it is safe to travel in China.
- Indian experts’ response: Dr Atul Goyal, an official of India’s Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), urged people not to panic about HMPV. He said that it is a respiratory virus like the common cold, which can cause flu-like symptoms in children and the elderly.
- India’s situation: Dr Goyal also clarified that there has been no significant increase in the number of respiratory infections in India, and no large number of cases have been reported. The figures for December 2024 have also been normal.
- WHO’s response: The World Health Organization (WHO) has not yet issued any official statement on the HMPV outbreak and neither China nor the WHO has declared any emergency.
- Virus monitoring: China’s neighboring countries are keeping a close watch on the situation. A few cases of HMPV have also been reported in Hong Kong.
- US CDC information: According to the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC), HMPV is a respiratory virus that causes upper and lower respiratory infections. Young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are most affected.
- Symptoms: Symptoms of HMPV are similar to those of the flu and other respiratory infections, including cough, fever, nasal congestion, and difficulty breathing.
- Severity and complications: In severe cases of HMPV, complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia may occur, which can be dangerous for people with weakened immune systems.
