China is experiencing an alarming increase in respiratory diseases, with human metapneumovirus (HMPV) emerging as an important pathogen. Although no official declaration of emergency has been made, the country’s health authorities have implemented protocols to deal with unknown pathogens through December 2024.

According to a Reuters report, the rise in respiratory infections due to influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumonia, COVID-19 and now HMPV has raised concerns. In response, China’s disease control authority recently operationalized a surveillance system specifically for pneumonia of unknown origin, anticipating a seasonal increase in infections during winter and spring.

The report highlighted an increasing trend of hMPV cases in the northern provinces, especially among children under 14 years of age.

Social media posts showing overcrowded hospitals in China have raised public concern, leading to claims of China declaring an emergency over HMPV. However, there has been no official confirmation of such measures.

First identified in 2001, HMPV belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, which is closely related to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The virus usually causes mild upper respiratory symptoms such as cough, runny nose and sore throat.

However, in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems, HMPV can cause serious complications, including pneumonia, bronchitis, and exacerbation of chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma or COPD.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says the incubation period for HMPV infection is 3 to 6 days, and symptoms can range from a mild cold-like condition to severe respiratory distress.

Is HMPV the same as the COVID-19 virus?

While HMPV and SARS-CoV-2 (the virus responsible for COVID-19) belong to different viral families, they have surprising similarities:

• respiratory illness: Both primarily target the respiratory system, causing mild to severe infections.
• Transmission: It spreads through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces.
• symptoms: Fever, cough, sore throat, wheezing and difficulty breathing are common.
• Vulnerable Groups: Children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at greater risk.
• Prevention: Standard measures such as hand hygiene, wearing masks and social distancing help prevent transmission.

However, one important difference is the availability of vaccination. While there are effective vaccines for COVID-19, there is no vaccine currently available for HMPV. Additionally, antiviral treatments for hMPV are limited, unlike COVID-19, for which there are treatments such as paxolovid.

Increasing trend after Covid-19

A study published in the journal Virology in April 2024 showed that there was an increase in HMPV infections in Henan, China, shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic. Between April and June 2023, cases of hMPV were frequently found, leading to daily hospitalizations.

As China prepares for rising respiratory infections in the coming months, experts stress the importance of vigilant surveillance, public health measures, and transparent communication to manage both the spread and public concern about hMPV.

Should we be worried?

The National Center for Disease Control (NCDC) has confirmed no cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in India.

NCDC Director Dr. Atul Goyal said that HMPV resembles the common cold virus, which causes flu-like symptoms in children and the elderly. He urged people to follow standard precautions, such as avoiding close contact when sick, and assured that regular cold or fever medicines are sufficient.

Dr Goyal stressed that there is no cause for concern, there has been no significant increase in respiratory outbreaks, and hospitals are well prepared with adequate supplies and beds during the winter surge .

Although vigilance is important, experts agree that there is currently no immediate threat from hMPV in India.