Five years after the COVID-19 virus erupted in China and subsequently had the world in its throes, another potential epidemic seems to have gripped the nation as infections indicate a steady uptick.
A new and mysterious virus, Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), is spreading through China and threatens to turn the wheels in the backward direction, evoking the horrors of the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic when the virus had spread like wildfire, causing deaths in lakhs and bringing the world to a grinding halt.
Given the lingering effects of the pandemic in public memory, the Indian government has recognized the importance of applying the lessons learned during the coronavirus outbreak. This proactive approach aims to prepare for any potential spread of the HMPV virus, should it follow a trajectory similar to that of COVID-19.
Indian health agency says HMPV outbreak not a cause for alarm
A senior official from the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Dr Atul Goel, has urged the public not to panic over reports of the spread of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China. Emphasizing general precautions against respiratory infections, he assured that the current situation is not alarming.
Dr. Goel clarified, “There has been news about a Metapneumovirus outbreak in China. To be clear, Metapneumovirus is similar to other respiratory viruses that cause the common cold. In very young and elderly individuals, it might present flu-like symptoms.”
While there is no specific antiviral treatment for HMPV, prevention remains critical. “Winter generally sees an increase in respiratory infections, and hospitals are well-prepared with necessary supplies and beds,” Dr Goel said.
He advised people to follow basic hygiene practices, such as using separate handkerchiefs for coughing or sneezing, avoiding crowded places if symptomatic, and taking over-the-counter medications for cold or fever as needed.
Dr Goel also noted that an analysis of respiratory outbreak data within India for December 2024 showed no significant increase or widespread cases. The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) continues to monitor respiratory and influenza cases in coordination with international agencies, ANI reported.
The government’s response follows unverified reports from China of a marked rise in viral infections concerning the spread of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), with videos showing overcrowded hospitals and crematoriums. However, reports state there is no evidence supporting these claims, and neither Chinese health authorities nor the WHO have released an official statement about the alleged crisis.
The situation is compounded by social media hysteria, with social media users claiming multiple viruses, including HMPV, Influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumonia, and COVID-19, are simultaneously circulating in China. The reports and social media discussions have nevertheless fueled concerns and public anxiety over the outbreak, especially after China downplayed the surging infections—an eerily similar denial that preceded the eventual outbreak of COVID-19.
As per reports, multiple respiratory viruses are concurrently spreading in China, leading to significant strain on healthcare systems. Children’s hospitals, in particular, are experiencing a rise in severe pneumonia cases, including those described as ‘white lung.’
Meanwhile, a Reuters report notes that China’s disease control authority has launched a surveillance system to monitor unknown pneumonia cases. This initiative aims to prepare for potential increases in respiratory diseases during winter, addressing gaps in early pathogen detection observed during the initial COVID-19 outbreak.
What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) and what are its symptoms?
HMPV is an RNA virus from the Metapneumovirus genus, first identified in 2001. Research suggests it has been circulating for over 60 years and is now recognized as a common respiratory pathogen globally. It spreads via respiratory droplets, close contact with infected individuals, or contaminated surfaces.
The Chinese CDC reports an infection period of 3–5 days. While it can occur year-round, the virus is most prevalent in winter and spring. Notably, HMPV does not generate a robust immune response, allowing for reinfection.
HMPV symptoms are similar to those of the common cold and coronavirus, including cough, fever, and cold-like signs. Officials advise wearing masks and frequent handwashing to curb the spread.
Among those most vulnerable to the virus are children and the elderly. Officials recommend wearing masks, avoiding crowded spaces, and maintaining hygiene to reduce infection risks.
Also, it is worth noting that though it is quite prevalent, there is no vaccine for HMPV, and its symptoms are often mistaken for those of a common cold.
Though experts say the threat of HMPV transforming itself into a COVID-19 outbreak is slim, China’s characteristic reticence and the suppression of public discussion over the outbreak have stoked fears among other nations and governments, forcing them to treat the situation with caution and account for a possibility where a mutated version of the virus could be both more infectious and virulent.
