COVID-like pandemic brewing in China? All about HMPV, the virus that has led to overcrowding of hospitals
By Vinaykumar Patil | First Published Jan 3, 2025, 2:48 PM ISTRecent viral videos show hospitals in China overwhelmed by respiratory illnesses, including HMPV, Influenza A, and COVID-19. While the WHO and Chinese authorities haven’t confirmed a new pandemic, the situation is causing panic. HMPV presents flu-like symptoms and spreads via respiratory droplets.
After the epidemic of COVID-19, which troubled the world and left lasting impacts globally, recent viral videos emerging on social media show hospitals in China overwhelmed by a surge in respiratory illnesses. These videos have caused widespread panic, with claims that multiple viruses, including Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), Influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumonia, and COVID-19, are circulating simultaneously. The situation is said to be leading to increased hospitalizations and overcrowding in crematoriums.
Despite the alarming visuals, health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO), have not confirmed the existence of a new pandemic. They have not issued any public warnings or declarations of emergency. Health officials are closely monitoring the situation, but no official reports have substantiated the claims circulating on social media.
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HMPV: A new threat?
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The Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that has been identified as one of the primary causes of the current outbreak in China. Similar to COVID-19, it spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Although it was first discovered in 2001, it has only recently garnered significant attention due to its rising prevalence in China.
Hospitals in China Overwhelmed as Severe "Flu" Outbreak, Including Influenza A and HMPV, Resembling 2020 COVID Surge. pic.twitter.com/GWw9u6JxsX
— Boar News (@PhamDuyHien9)Reports indicate that HMPV is causing flu-like symptoms such as cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. In more severe cases, it can lead to conditions like pneumonia or bronchitis. While HMPV can affect people of all ages, young children, older adults, and individuals with weak immune systems are more vulnerable to the virus.
Social media posts and videos from China depict a dire situation, with hospitals reportedly overcrowded due to the rising number of patients suffering from HMPV and other respiratory infections. In particular, pediatric hospitals are experiencing an alarming rise in cases of pneumonia, with some reports describing a phenomenon called "white lung" syndrome, which is a severe form of pneumonia. Many social media posts claim that the virus is overwhelming China's healthcare system, and authorities have yet to provide clear information on how the situation is being managed.
While there are growing concerns, the WHO and Chinese health authorities have not issued any emergency declarations. Experts suggest that the surge in HMPV cases is being monitored closely, but no official alerts or state of emergency have been declared. Health officials in China are reportedly increasing efforts to monitor and control the spread of the virus, with a special focus on areas in the northern provinces.
The concern is compounded by the fact that other viruses, including Influenza A and Mycoplasma pneumonia, are also reportedly circulating in China. Some reports suggest that the overlap of multiple respiratory viruses is contributing to the strain on the country's healthcare infrastructure. While some social media reports warn of a potential new pandemic, these claims remain unverified, and experts are urging caution in interpreting these viral posts.
Symptoms and prevention: How to stay safe?
The symptoms of HMPV are similar to those of influenza and COVID-19, including fever, cough, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, the virus can lead to complications such as pneumonia or bronchitis. As the virus can spread through respiratory droplets, it is essential to practice basic hygiene, such as wearing masks, washing hands frequently, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
Currently, there is no vaccine for HMPV, as the virus was only identified a few decades ago. Health experts continue to emphasize the importance of preventive measures to limit the spread of the virus.
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As the virus spreads in China, neighbouring countries are also on high alert. Regions surrounding China, such as Hong Kong and Japan, are taking steps to closely monitor the situation. Japan, for example, recently reported a significant surge in influenza cases, with over 94,000 flu patients in one week alone, further adding to the concerns of health authorities in the region.
Health officials are also concerned about the potential for HMPV and other respiratory viruses to spread globally. As these viruses continue to circulate in multiple regions, the need for comprehensive monitoring and response measures becomes even more critical.
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