Reports of rising hospital admissions in China due to HMPV, a virus that is not particularly well-known to the public but is well-understood by the scientific community, have sparked global concern. In the past 24 hours, videos and photos of crowded hospitals in China have circulated widely, showing patients flocking to emergency rooms due to deteriorating health. Local media have attributed the outbreak to a lesser-known virus, Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), which usually causes mild symptoms similar to the common cold.
What we need to know
As reported by the British newspaper The Guardian, Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that causes symptoms similar to the common cold or flu. While it typically results in mild infections, it can lead to more serious complications, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, especially in the elderly, young children, and those with compromised immune systems.
The virus belongs to the same family as the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and was first identified in 2001 in the Netherlands. Its epidemics tend to be more intense during the winter months.
Why is it in the news?
In northern China, there has been a rise in HMPV cases, particularly among children, according to local authorities. The country’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have urged citizens to adopt hygiene and preventive measures to minimize claims of hospital overcrowding and fears of a pandemic similar to COVID-19.
Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokeswoman Mao Ning stated, “Respiratory infections usually peak during the winter season. This year’s diseases seem to be less severe and spread on a smaller scale than last year.”
The increase in cases is partly attributed to the use of new technologies that make it easier to detect the virus, as well as greater public awareness due to the pandemic.
How serious is HMPV?
HMPV is one of several viruses that are often classified under the broader term “common cold.” It is not categorized as COVID-19 or influenza.
Most infections resolve on their own within a few days with rest and self-care. However, the virus can cause more severe illness, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, in more vulnerable groups of the population.
High-risk groups include:
The elderly
Young children
“HMPV can cause serious illness in these groups, so it’s important for people to be aware of this,” said Professor Paul Griffin, director of infectious diseases at Mater Health Services in Brisbane.
Should we be worried?
HMPV is not a new virus; it has been around for decades, and a certain level of immunity has been built up in the population from previous infections. Unlike COVID-19, HMPV is not a pandemic virus.
“There is no reason to be concerned about a new pandemic, but the rise in cases is worrying,” said Professor Griffin.
How can we protect ourselves?
Without any vaccines or antiviral drugs available, preventive measures are the main tool to reduce transmission:
Stay at home if you are sick.
Practice good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently.
Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Wear a mask if you are sick and need to go out in public.
The experience from the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of these measures, with experts emphasizing that while strict lockdowns are not necessary, taking basic steps can help limit the spread.
