Beijing responded on Friday (January 3) to reports of rising human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in China, playing it down as an annual seasonal resurgence. A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson confirmed the increase while speaking to the media, blaming the “winter season.”
“Respiratory infections usually peak in the winter season,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Mao Ning said.

“I can assure you that the Chinese government cares about the health of Chinese citizens and foreigners coming to China,” Mao said, adding that “it is safe to travel in China.”

Overcrowded hospitals

Previously, photos and videos appeared on social media showing what appeared to be overcrowded hospitals in China amid a surge in respiratory illnesses.

In response to these reports, Mao Ning said: “The diseases appear to be less severe and spreading at a lower rate compared to last year.”

What is HMPV?

Human metapneumovirus is a respiratory virus that can affect people of all ages, especially children, seniors and people with weak immune systems.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention first identified the virus in 2001.

Symptoms of HMPV

The symptoms of the disease are similar to those of flu and respiratory infections.

In some cases, the virus can cause bronchitis or pneumonia. The most common signs include cough, fever, nasal congestion and shortness of breath.

Also read: ‘No cause for alarm,’ says India’s health regulator on reports of HMPV outbreak in China

The incubation period of the virus is generally three to six days.

India’s cautious call

Reacting to reports of the outbreak in China, India’s top health regulator, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), also stressed on Friday that there was no cause for concern and said no cases of HMPV had been reported in the country.

Also read: England sees sharp rise in flu cases, with over 5,000 patients treated last week

News agency ANI reported that India’s National Center for Disease Control (NCDC) is closely monitoring respiratory and seasonal flu cases in the country.

(With contributions from agencies)