World

China Faces Rising Cases Of Human Metapneumovirus Five Years After Covid-19

Five years after the Covid-19 pandemic, China is grappling with the spread of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus affecting people of all ages.

Reports suggest that hospitals and crematoriums are under strain due to a surge in multiple respiratory infections, including Influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Covid-19.

Videos circulating on social media show overcrowded hospitals, with some users reporting alarming spikes in pneumonia cases, especially among children.

As per reports, a sharp rise in HMPV cases has caused a worrying increase in sudden deaths, especially among those aged 40 to 80.

Taking to X, SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) posted, “China is facing a surge in multiple viruses, including Influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and COVID-19, overwhelming hospitals and crematoriums. Children’s hospitals are particularly strained by rising pneumonia and ‘white lung’ cases.”

China’s state broadcaster CCTV reported that late December data from the Chinese CDC showed a rise in the HMPV positive rate among cases aged 14 and below.

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)

Discovered in 2001, HMPV belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, similar to the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

However, serological studies suggest its presence in humans for over 60 years.

The virus circulates worldwide, causing upper and lower respiratory illnesses, particularly in young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.

Symptoms include fever, cough, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath.

Li Tongzeng, a chief doctor at Beijing You’an Hospital, explained that HMPV spreads through respiratory droplets, direct contact like handshakes, or touching contaminated surfaces, according to CCTV.

The virus has an incubation period of 3 to 5 days.

Experts recommend preventative measures such as wearing masks, washing hands frequently, and boosting immunity.

Additionally, they are cautioning against the use of antivirals for HMPV.

In an interview with the state-backed ‘National Business Daily’, a respiratory specialist from a Shanghai hospital advised against blindly using antiviral drugs to treat human metapneumovirus, which has no vaccine and presents symptoms similar to a cold.

Multiple countries including the US, Canada, Australia, and China have reported cases of HMPV, highlighting its global spread.

Also Read: S Jaishankar Offers Condolences After Deadly Plane Crash In South Korea

Mankrit Kaur

Recent Posts

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju Inaugurates Jamia Millia Islamia’s 105th Foundation Day & Six-Day ‘Talimi Mela’

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju inaugurated Jamia Millia Islamia’s 105th Foundation Day celebrations and the six-day…

15 hours ago

PM Modi To Unveil 25 E-Buses At Statue Of Unity; Strengthening India’s First E-City Vision

PM Modi will inaugurate 25 new E-buses in Gujarat, on October 31, coinciding with Sardar…

15 hours ago

Nothing Is Affordable Phone 3a Lite: Launch, Design & Key Features

Nothing Phone 3a Lite offers sleek design, 5G performance, and affordability with modern features.

17 hours ago

Pakistan Approves Over 2,100 Visas For Indian Sikhs To Attend Gurpurab 2025

The Pakistan High Commission has granted over 2,100 visas to Indian Sikh pilgrims to attend…

17 hours ago

PM Modi Showcases India’s Maritime Progress; Calls For Global Partnerships

PM Modi urged global investors to invest in India’s growing maritime sector amid global trade…

18 hours ago

Rain Halts India’s Charge As First T20I Against Australia Called Off In Canberra

Persistent rain forced the abandonment of the first T20I between India and Australia at Canberra’s…

18 hours ago