New Virus In China: What Is Human Metapneumovirus Or HMPV? Symptoms, Treatment Explained

Last Updated:January 03, 2025, 13:09 IST

China sees a seasonal rise in respiratory diseases during winters. Reports have indicated a recent surge in human metapneumovirus cases, especially among those under 14, alongside pathogens like rhinovirus

The world has witnessed the devastation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which originated in China and spread globally. The virus’s origins in Wuhan, China, remain a subject of ongoing investigation. Five years after the initial outbreak, another wave of infections is surging in China.

Following COVID-19, a new mysterious virus, Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), is spreading nationwide. This outbreak is causing scenes reminiscent of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The alarming situation in China, where a surge in viral infections is gripping the nation, is rapidly gaining attention on social media. Numerous reports and online posts suggest that the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is spreading at a concerning rate. Videos circulating online depicted that hospitals and crematoriums are overwhelmed with the influx of patients and fatalities. However, according to a Times of India report there is no evidence to support these claims. Neither the China health authorities nor WHO have issued any official statement about this crisis.

Some social media users suggest that multiple viruses, including HMPV, Influenza A, Mycoplasma Pneumonia, and COVID-19, are circulating simultaneously within China. The country is reportedly on high alert; however, comprehensive information about the virus remains limited.

An NDTV report indicates a surge in Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in China, causing widespread concern. HMPV presents with symptoms akin to influenza and COVID-19, leading to heightened anxiety among the population. Chinese health authorities are closely monitoring the situation, working to understand and address the outbreak effectively.

According to the X handle ‘SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19)’, multiple respiratory viruses are circulating concurrently in China, including Influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and COVID-19. This surge in cases has placed significant strain on healthcare facilities. Children’s hospitals are particularly affected, grappling with a notable increase in pneumonia cases, including severe cases presenting as ‘white lung’.

At the same time, a Reuters report noted that China’s disease control authority stated on Friday that it is implementing a surveillance system for unknown types of pneumonia. This development comes in anticipation of a potential increase in respiratory diseases during the winter months. The primary objective of establishing this specialised system is to aid authorities in developing protocols to effectively address unknown pathogens. Such preparation was limited during the initial emergence of the COVID-19 coronavirus five years ago.

What are the symptoms of human metapneumovirus?

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) presents symptoms akin to the common cold and coronavirus. These include cough, fever and cold-like symptoms.

The outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), five years after Covid-19, is increasing in many parts of China, worrying officials. As a result, officials are urging people to take precautions such as wearing masks and washing hands frequently.

What is this HMPV virus?

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is an RNA virus belonging to the Metapneumovirus genus within the Pneumoviridae family. First identified by Dutch researchers in 2001, HMPV was discovered while studying samples from children experiencing respiratory infections. Research indicates that this virus has circulated for at least six decades and is now recognised as a prevalent respiratory pathogen globally.

HMPV spreads primarily through respiratory droplets expelled during coughing and sneezing. Transmission can also occur through close contact with infected individuals or exposure to contaminated environments. The Chinese CDC website states that the infection period for HMPV is three to five days. Unfortunately, the immune response triggered by HMPV is insufficient to prevent reinfection. While HMPV can be detected year-round, it is most prevalent during the winter and spring months.

Who are the soft targets?

Children and the elderly are the most vulnerable to this virus, as they were to Covid-19. In light of the virus’s increasing prevalence, officials have renewed their recommendation to wear masks. Health officials have advised the public to avoid crowded areas, continue wearing masks, and sanitise their hands frequently.

Is China hiding something again?

According to Kan Biao, a Chinese official, China experiences numerous respiratory diseases during the winter and spring seasons. However, he did not confirm whether the total number of cases this year would be lower than last year. Recent cases reveal the presence of pathogens such as rhinovirus and human metapneumovirus. Notably, there is a surge in human metapneumovirus cases among individuals under 14 years of age. Surprisingly, no vaccine for this virus has been developed yet, despite its symptoms mirroring those of a common cold.

According to the Times of India report, experts suggest that the rise in respiratory infections, including hMPV, is due to cold weather and the return to normalcy after the pandemic. During lockdowns, limited social interaction and strict restrictions kept many viruses in check, reducing exposure to common pathogens, particularly among children. With society now fully reopened, there’s a “catch-up” effect as people encounter these viruses again, impacting children and vulnerable adults the most.

Location :

China