China is facing a significant rise in respiratory infections from a virus identified as Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV).
This development has overwhelmed hospitals, prompted urgent measures, and raised public concerns about a potential outbreak similar to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In response, the World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that the situation is not considered an emergency.
“The World Health Organization has not classified the situation as a global health emergency, but the increase in cases has prompted authorities to strengthen monitoring systems,” the WHO said.
According to the International Health Regulations, if a disease spreads within a region, it must be reported to WHO, which will then determine whether the event constitutes a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
Meanwhile, health experts have raised concerns about HMPV, a respiratory virus affecting several other countries in the region, particularly in Asia.
Among the cases of human metapneumovirus, there are growing numbers of affected individuals under the age of 14, according to a report published by Reuters.
