Beijing: The rate of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections in northern China is declining, according to a health official on Sunday, alleviating some concerns about a potential pandemic.
HMPV, a flu-like virus related to the respiratory syncytial virus, typically causes symptoms such as fever, cough, and nasal congestion.
While these symptoms generally resolve on their own, the virus can lead to lower respiratory tract infections in children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
Wang Liping, a researcher at the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, clarified that HMPV is not a new virus and has been circulating in humans for several decades.
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She noted that the recent uptick in cases can be attributed to improved detection methods rather than a sudden emergence of the virus.
“Currently, the detection rate of HMPV cases is fluctuating, but there is a decline in the number of positive cases in northern provinces, and the rate of positive cases among children under 14 is also decreasing,” Wang said during a press briefing.
Concerns arose recently over a surge in HMPV infections in northern China, fuelled by images circulating online showing hospitals overwhelmed with patients wearing masks.
However, the World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that no unusual outbreaks have been reported in China or elsewhere.
Experts emphasise that HMPV differs from COVID-19 in that it has been present for decades, and there is some degree of built-in immunity to it. By age 5, most children have been infected with the virus at least once.
Wang further reassured the public that the respiratory illnesses currently circulating in China are caused by known pathogens, with no new infectious diseases emerging.
Gao Xinqiang, Deputy Director of the Department of Medical Emergency Response, noted that while the number of patients in fever clinics and emergency departments has risen, it remains lower than at the same time last year, and there is no shortage of medical resources.
The health commission also forecasted a gradual decline in flu infections nationwide by mid-to-late January.
While no vaccines or specific treatments are available for HMPV, experts recommend preventive measures, including regular handwashing, avoiding crowded spaces, and wearing masks in public to reduce the risk of respiratory infections.
