China is currently facing an outbreak of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), five years after the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Reports and social media posts indicate the virus is spreading rapidly, with claims of overwhelmed hospitals and crematoriums. Videos circulating online depict crowded medical facilities, with some users highlighting the simultaneous spread of multiple viruses, including influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Covid-19.
Unconfirmed claims suggest China has declared a state of emergency. HMPV, which causes flu-like symptoms resembling Covid-19, is under close observation by health authorities as it continues to spread.
A post by the X account "SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19)" stated, "China is experiencing a surge in multiple viruses, including Influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Covid-19, overwhelming hospitals and crematoriums. Children's hospitals are particularly burdened by rising cases of pneumonia and 'white lung' conditions."
According to Reuters, China’s disease control authority announced on Friday the piloting of a monitoring system for pneumonia of unknown origin. This system aims to improve preparedness compared to the initial stages of the Covid-19 outbreak. Authorities are setting up laboratory reporting procedures and case verification protocols to better handle emerging pathogens, as reported by state broadcaster CCTV.
Between December 16 and 22, acute respiratory disease cases showed an upward trend, with officials predicting a rise in respiratory infections during winter and spring. Kan Biao, a senior health official, noted that overall cases are expected to be fewer than last year but did not provide further details.
Pathogens recently identified include rhinovirus and HMPV, with infections among individuals under 14, particularly in northern provinces, showing an upward trend.
A Shanghai-based respiratory expert cautioned the public against the indiscriminate use of antiviral drugs to combat HMPV, for which no vaccine exists. The virus typically causes cold-like symptoms and should be managed appropriately, the expert said in an interview with the state-run National Business Daily.
