China is currently facing a surge in cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus that causes flu-like symptoms. This increase comes five years after the COVID-19 pandemic, and reports suggest the virus is spreading rapidly. Social media posts and videos indicate crowded hospitals, with some alleging that multiple viruses - including influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and COVID-19 - are circulating concurrently.
While there are claims that China has declared a state of emergency, neither Chinese officials nor the World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed this. HMPV is known to cause flu-like symptoms and can also present symptoms similar to COVID-19, prompting health officials to closely monitor the situation.
Although some social media reports describe a critical situation, China’s foreign ministry has downplayed concerns, attributing the spike to the “winter season” and calling it an “annual seasonal reoccurrence.” The ministry has reassured the public and tourists that it is safe to travel in the country.
After China, Malaysia has experienced a notable surge in HMPV infections in recent months, raising concerns about the potential spread of respiratory illnesses. Malaysia, as per a Strait Times report, has seen a significant rise in cases of HMPV in 2024, with 327 cases reported, marking a 45 percent increase from 225 cases in 2023. The Malaysian Health Ministry has urged the public to adopt preventive measures to curb the spread of HMPV. These measures include frequent handwashing with soap, wearing face masks, and covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as part of broader efforts to control respiratory infections in the region.
HMPV has also been reported in Hong Kong, though the number of cases there remains low. Neighbouring countries, including Japan, have been closely monitoring the situation, as per a South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) News report. In Japan, an influenza outbreak has already caused thousands of cases, with 94,259 flu patients reported in the week leading up to December 15, 2024, states a report by the Japan Broadcasting Corporation.
Meanwhile, in India, the Union Health Ministry, on Monday, confirmed the detection of two cases of HMPV in Karnataka during routine surveillance. Addressing concerns, the ministry clarified that HMPV is not a new virus and has been in circulation globally, including in India, for years. It further stated that there has been no unusual surge in influenza-like illnesses in the country, reassuring the public about the current situation. The ministry underscored its commitment to monitoring respiratory illnesses and urged the public to continue practicing preventive measures, including proper hygiene and respiratory etiquette.
In response to the situation, India’s National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has assured the public that it is monitoring respiratory and influenza cases closely and is in contact with international health agencies. Health authorities in Maharashtra and Kerala have issued an advisory urging heightened surveillance for Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI) and Influenza-Like Illnesses (ILI). The advisory encourages residents to take preventive measures, such as frequent handwashing, wearing masks, and covering coughs and sneezes.
Despite these concerns, experts state that HMPV is a common respiratory virus, primarily affecting young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals, especially during winter months.
The Health Ministry has reiterated its commitment to monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates as necessary.
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