China is facing a sharp surge in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases, five years after the Covid-19 pandemic. Social media and reports claim the new virus, along with other respiratory pathogens, is overburdening hospitals and crematoriums. Online videos show crowded medical facilities, some of which say a state of emergency has been declared. This, however, is yet to be confirmed.
HMPV, which presents with flu-like symptoms and sometimes almost mimics Covid-19, is among the various respiratory viruses now transmitted. There is influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Covid-19-all leading to an increased outbreak. Some of the children’s hospitals are particularly flooded with increasing pneumonia cases, including the so-called “white lung” cases, the social media releases show.
COVID-19 pandemic spread all across the world five years ago, China now welcomes new virus
China’s National Disease Control and Prevention Administration said that a system to monitor pneumonia of unknown origins has been planned to address the surge. This is more aggressive than measures taken during the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, improving preparation and quick response. It would make reporting and verification processes by laboratories and disease control agencies simplified to hasten the process of arriving at instant responses to emerging pathogens.
Official statistics published on December 22 indicated an increase in acute respiratory infections across the country, with northern provinces being the most affected. Cases of HMPV, especially among children under 14, are sharply on the rise. Kan Biao, a senior official, has warned that although this year’s caseload of respiratory illness might be smaller than last year, winter and spring could see further increases.
No vaccine available for human metapneumovirus
Health experts are cautioning the public to be careful in using antiviral drugs against HMPV, for which no vaccine is available. The virus, although it presents as a cold, can cause serious complications in vulnerable populations.
China’s approach now shows lessons learned from the past in an effort to build resilience and readiness as respiratory illnesses surge.
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