China Faces HMPV Surge; Hospitals Reportedly Overwhelmed

Jan 3, 2025, 11:23 AM

China is reportedly facing a surge in respiratory illnesses attributed to the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), five years after the COVID-19 pandemic. Reports suggest that hospitals in several parts of the country are overwhelmed due to the rapid spread of HMPV, which causes flu-like and COVID-19-like symptoms. The virus affects children and the elderly most and typically spreads during winter months. China is piloting a monitoring system for pneumonia of unknown origin. Experts emphasize that HMPV is a known virus that triggers a rise in respiratory illnesses every winter.