Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Surge in China
The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in India, under the Union Health Ministry, is closely monitoring cases of respiratory illnesses and seasonal influenza in the country amid growing concerns over a potential Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China. News agency ANI has reported, citing official sources, that hospitals in China are struggling to cope with a surge in respiratory illnesses, particularly HMPV, which has led to increasing pressure on healthcare systems.
Reports indicate that hospitals and crematories in China are overwhelmed by the rise in respiratory illnesses, with a particular strain on children’s hospitals due to a sharp uptick in pneumonia cases, including severe cases often referred to as “white lung,” a term describing critical pneumonia symptoms.
As of late December 2024, China’s disease control authority initiated a monitoring system for pneumonia of unknown origin, anticipating an increase in respiratory illnesses throughout the winter months. Reuters reported that this initiative aims to strengthen preparedness and improve response protocols for emerging pathogens, in contrast to the lower level of preparedness observed five years ago during the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The National Disease Control and Prevention Administration (NCDPA) in China is set to implement procedures for laboratory reporting and ensure disease control agencies can efficiently track, verify, and manage such cases, according to CCTV. Kan Biao, a Chinese health official, stated that China is likely to see a variety of respiratory infectious diseases during the winter and spring. While no specifics were given, he noted that the total number of cases this year is expected to be lower than last year.
In December, cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China, particularly among children under the age of 14, showed a noticeable increase, raising further concerns about the spread of HMPV in the country. Along with HMPV, pathogens like rhinovirus have been detected in the region.
Despite the rising number of cases, neither the Chinese government nor the World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed the alleged outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China. The situation continues to be closely monitored as health officials work to manage and control the spread of respiratory illnesses, including HMPV, in the country.
