Experts are raising concerns about a surge in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China, which is straining hospitals, while cases in the US are also on the rise. The outbreak has sparked calls for greater transparency from Beijing amid fears of a repeat of the 2019 COVID-19 pandemic’s early handling.
HMPV, first identified in 2001, typically causes mild cold-like symptoms such as congestion, fatigue, and a blocked nose. However, the virus can lead to severe complications like pneumonia, bronchitis, and bronchiolitis, especially among vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.
Calls for Transparency from China
Western experts have urged China to provide detailed data on the outbreak. Dr. Sanjaya Senanayake, an infectious disease expert, stressed the importance of timely data sharing, including genomic information. He stated, “We will need genomic data confirming that HMPV is the culprit and that there aren’t any significant mutations of concern.”
Reports of overcrowded hospitals, overwhelmed crematoriums, and funeral homes have surfaced on social media. However, Chinese authorities have largely downplayed the situation, with the Chinese CDC advising the public to follow basic hygiene precautions.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that respiratory infections often peak during winter, describing this year’s wave as less severe than the previous year.
Rising Cases in the US
The US has also experienced a surge in HMPV cases, with test positivity rates doubling from 0.9% in late November to 1.9% by the end of December, according to CDC data. Approximately 300 confirmed cases were reported in the final week of December.
While HMPV typically causes mild symptoms, it hospitalizes around 20,000 children under five annually in the US. Estimates suggest that 10-30% of hospitalized patients may succumb to the illness, though exact mortality rates are unknown due to limited data.
Experts Downplay Global Threat
Despite the rising cases, health professionals do not believe the HMPV outbreak poses a global crisis akin to COVID-19. Dr. Jacqueline Stephens of Flinders University noted that heightened vigilance post-COVID might amplify public concern.
Professor Jill Carr, also from Flinders University, explained that HMPV differs significantly from the coronavirus pandemic. “We have a better understanding of HMPV’s epidemiology, genetic diversity, and diagnostic methods,” she said.
Experts, including Dr. Paul Hunter of the University of East Anglia, argue that increased molecular testing, such as PCR tests, may contribute to the apparent rise in cases, as more infections are now being diagnosed.
Protective Measures and Current Outlook
HMPV spreads through respiratory droplets, close personal contact, and contaminated surfaces, similar to flu and other respiratory viruses. Public health officials recommend hand washing, proper ventilation, and avoiding contact with infected individuals to reduce transmission.
Professor John Tregoning from Imperial College London advised, “Rest, fluids, and avoiding spreading the illness to others are the best practices for those affected.”
While experts agree that the outbreak in China resembles a severe flu season, they emphasize the importance of robust surveillance and timely responses to mitigate public health risks in densely populated regions.
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