HMPV in China: Is human metapneumovirus similar to Covid-19? What you need to know
human metapneumovirus or HMPV — a respiratory illness with symptoms similar to those of a flu. This has sparked serious concerns of another health crisis after COVID-19, prompting neighbouring countries to monitor the situation closely.
ET Year-end Special Reads
Stocks to buy in 2025: 66 ideas from top brokerages for your new year portfolio
What does 2025 hold for India's IT services sector?
2025 may be the year of EVs in India, dominated by SUV launches
Several media reports and social media posts suggest that the virus is spreading rapidly in the country. Some even claim that hospitals and crematories are being overwhelmed. As respiratory illnesses alarmingly increase in China, there are complaints of congested hospitals and overburdened healthcare systems.
Some social media users claim that multiple viruses, including influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Covid-19, are circulating in China. There are even claims that China has declared a state of emergency, however, there's no official confirmation.
ALSO READ: HMPV virus in China FAQs: Symptoms, treatment, diagnosis and everything else you should know
HMPV surge in China sparks concern
According to a Reuters report, the surge in respiratory infections—caused by influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Covid-19, and now HMPV—has raised alarms. In response, China’s disease control authority recently piloted a monitoring system specifically for pneumonia of unknown origin, anticipating a seasonal spike in infections during winter and spring.
Artificial
