Reports of a surge in respiratory illnesses in China have raised concerns, evoking memories of the start of the Covid-19 pandemic five years ago. However, experts emphasize that the situation is vastly different and not as worrisome as the early days of the pandemic. The virus responsible for the uptick in cases is not a new pathogen like the coronavirus, but rather human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a well-known virus that has been circulating for decades.
What is HMPV?
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that infects people worldwide every year, especially in regions with colder climates. Similar to the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), HMPV causes flu-like symptoms such as cough, fever, nasal congestion, and wheezing. Though most infections are mild and resemble common cold symptoms, severe cases can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly in vulnerable populations like infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems or pre-existing lung conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
While HMPV can be severe in some cases, it is rarely fatal in higher-income countries. However, in lower-income nations with less developed healthcare systems, the virus can be more deadly due to poor surveillance and treatment capabilities.
How long has HMPV been around?
HMPV was first identified in 2001, although researchers believe it has been circulating in humans for at least 60 years. Despite its long history, it has not received the same level of attention as viruses like influenza, Covid-19, or RSV. Dr. Leigh Howard, an associate professor of pediatric infectious disease at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, explained that the virus is rarely tested for, and its clinical features are often indistinguishable from other respiratory illnesses. As a result, many HMPV infections go unrecognized and are attributed to other viral illnesses.
Also Read – First U.S. Death Linked to H5N1 Bird Flu Reported in Louisiana
How does HMPV spread?
HMPV spreads primarily through respiratory droplets or aerosols from coughing or sneezing, similar to how the flu, Covid-19, and common cold viruses are transmitted. It can also spread through direct contact with an infected individual or via contaminated surfaces. There is no specific antiviral treatment for HMPV, and there is no vaccine. Treatment mainly focuses on managing symptoms, with research ongoing to develop a vaccine for both HMPV and RSV, given the similarities between the two viruses.
What is China’s response?
Chinese health authorities have acknowledged the increase in HMPV cases, particularly among children aged 14 and younger, with higher numbers reported in northern China. The rise in cases has coincided with an increase in influenza infections, which are common during the winter months. Chinese officials have reassured the public that the situation is under control, with the scale and intensity of the spread expected to be lower than in the previous year.
At a press conference held by the China CDC on December 27, Kan Biao, the director of the Institute for Infectious Diseases, stated that the surge in cases was not unusual for this time of year. He also highlighted the potential for cases to rise during the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday, as travel and gatherings increase. Authorities have urged the public to take basic precautions, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding crowded areas.
In response to public concern, Chinese state media outlets have reassured citizens that HMPV is a known virus and not a new threat. Some people have shared their experiences online, with some joking about using up their stockpiled face masks from the Covid-19 pandemic. There has also been an increased discussion on social media platforms about the general uptick in respiratory illnesses, not just HMPV.
Also Read – 19-Year-Old Diagnosed with PASH After Unusual Breast Growth Post-Vaccine
What does the World Health Organization say?
The World Health Organization (WHO) has not expressed concern about the current situation in China, describing the rise in cases as predictable for the Northern Hemisphere winter. Dr. Margaret Harris, a spokesperson for the WHO, noted that the increase in acute respiratory infections, including HMPV, is typical for this time of year. The WHO has been in contact with Chinese health officials and reports no unusual outbreak patterns.
The WHO also stated that there has been no significant strain on China’s healthcare system, and no emergency measures or declarations have been triggered.
Should you be worried?
Despite the similarities to the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic, the current situation is fundamentally different. Covid-19 was a novel virus with no pre-existing immunity in the population, whereas HMPV is well-known and has been circulating for decades. Global populations have built up immunity to HMPV, making it less likely to cause widespread concern. While severe cases can still strain healthcare systems, particularly in pediatric wards, the situation is not expected to overwhelm medical facilities.
Dr. Sanjaya Senanayake, an infectious disease expert at the Australian National University, emphasized the importance of China sharing timely data on the outbreak. This includes epidemiological data on who is getting infected and genomic data to confirm that HMPV is the culprit, and to rule out any significant mutations of concern.
Conclusion
Although reports of a rise in HMPV cases in China may evoke memories of the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic, medical experts stress that the situation is far less concerning. HMPV is a well-established virus that circulates annually and poses minimal risk to the general population. While it can cause severe illness in vulnerable individuals, there is no cause for widespread panic. The WHO has indicated that there is no unusual outbreak pattern, and Chinese authorities are managing the situation with routine precautions.
