'Is it deadly?': China’s HMPV surge sparks fears—should Indians be worried
Produced by: Mohsin Shaikh
Representative pic
New surge
China faces a wave of respiratory illnesses, including human metapneumovirus (HMPV), five years after the Covid-19 pandemic.
Crowded hospitals
HMPV is rapidly spreading, particularly affecting children and the elderly, with hospitals struggling under the strain of rising pneumonia cases.
Seasonal uptick
The colder weather and typical winter increase in respiratory infections are contributing to the surge in cases across the region.
Post-lockdown effects
Years of reduced exposure to pathogens due to pandemic lockdowns have created a "catch-up" in immune vulnerability, especially among children.
Multiple threats
Alongside HMPV, other viruses like influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Covid-19 are circulating, overwhelming healthcare systems.
Government action
China’s authorities have implemented a monitoring system for unknown pneumonia cases and strengthened protocols for disease reporting.
HMPV explained
HMPV causes symptoms similar to the common cold but can lead to severe outcomes like pneumonia in young children, the elderly, or those with weakened immunity.
COVID comparison
HMPV is generally milder than Covid-19, with fewer severe complications and no evidence of pandemic-level spread, according to health experts.
Preventive measures
Precautions like handwashing, wearing masks in crowded areas, and avoiding large gatherings remain effective against HMPV and other respiratory viruses.
No panic
Neither the Chinese government nor the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared an emergency, and experts confirm no evidence of a new pandemic threat.