BEIJING – China is currently experiencing a notable increase in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a common respiratory virus that tends to impact young children and the elderly more seriously. While this surge has raised some eyebrows, health experts believe it does not warrant widespread panic.

The situation isn’t unique to China; neighboring countries including Vietnam and India are closely monitoring the potential spread of HMPV. Notably, Malaysia reported a staggering 45 percent rise in HMPV cases from 2023 to 2024, further fueling concern among health authorities.

Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, former chief scientist at the World Health Organization, reassured the public that HMPV is not an unprecedented threat. "This virus primarily causes mild respiratory infections," she mentioned. Instead of fearing each new pathogen, she urged individuals to adopt common-sense precautions during cold seasons, such as wearing masks, regularly washing hands, and keeping away from crowded places.

The peak seasons for HMPV outbreaks usually fall in winter and spring. This virus has been in circulation globally since its discovery in 2001, in contrast to Covid-19, which emerged unexpectedly in 2019. HMPV transmits through droplets from an infected person's coughs or sneezes, close personal contact, or contamination from surfaces.

The Situation in China

In China, while official figures have not been disclosed, health authorities have noted a surge in cases among individuals under the age of 14, particularly in the colder northern provinces like Beijing and Hebei, where viruses thrive during the winter months. Experts suggest that this situation aligns with the ongoing flu season, attributing rising cases to the usual array of viruses including influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and HMPV.

Increased public awareness is evident, with more commuters donning masks during their travels. However, the overall sentiment does not seem to reflect widespread alarm about an HMPV outbreak. Observations in local hospitals in Beijing indicate that facilities are managing well; there are no significant queues, and same-day consultations remain available.

The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a 0.1 percentage increase in HMPV incidence to 6.2 percent, putting it among the top three outpatient flu-like illnesses. Nevertheless, influenza continues to dominate as the most infectious seasonal illness with its incidence rising to 30.2 percent.

Understanding HMPV

Zheng Lishu, a researcher at the Chinese CDC, noted that HMPV is a familiar virus and should not induce alarm. "For most individuals, symptoms from HMPV typically resolve on their own within about a week," she explained.

In fact, infectious disease expert Hsu Li Yang from Singapore's NUS Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health pointed out the rise in HMPV cases is relatively unusual considering that RSV usually impacts more individuals. Approximately 50 to 70 percent of children may be infected by HMPV by the age of two, underscoring that HMPV is not new and its seasonal prominence is expected.

Hsu cautioned, however, that while there's potential for a sizeable outbreak, it is unlikely to reach the profound impacts of previous pandemics like Covid-19 or severe influenza outbreaks. The public is encouraged to stay informed and follow safety guidelines without succumbing to unnecessary panic.

As the situation continues to evolve, maintaining vigilance and practicing basic hygiene remains paramount. Make sure you’re prepared and informed!