An outbreak of a virus in northern China has raised some concern online, but experts indicate that the risk of another Covid-like pandemic is low. China is currently witnessing an increase in respiratory infections, with human metapneumovirus (HMPV) representing 6. 2% of cases and approximately 5. 4% between December 16 and December 22, 2024, even surpassing Covid-19.
HMPV leads to cold-like symptoms but can result in severe illness, especially in children and immunocompromised individuals. In response, authorities have implemented a pneumonia monitoring system for unknown pathogens; however, the WHO has reported no new diseases and attributes the rise to several known viruses following the easing of Covid-19 restrictions.
HMPV belongs to the same family as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and has been known since at least 2001, when it was first identified in the Netherlands. Its outbreaks typically occur during colder seasons.
HMPV is a respiratory disease that can cause flu or cold-like symptoms, potentially increasing the risk of more severe complications like bronchitis or pneumonia among the elderly, young children, and immunocompromised individuals.
Recently, HMPV has garnered attention due to a surge in cases in northern China, particularly among children, as reported by local authorities. The country’s Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has cautioned the public to maintain health and hygiene precautions while also refuting online claims of overwhelmed hospitals and fears of another Covid-like pandemic.
Experts note that HMPV differs from Covid-19 in that it has circulated for several decades, resulting in a level of immunity in the global population due to past infections. In contrast, Covid-19 was a novel virus that had never infected humans before, leading to its pandemic spread.
