'Not A New Virus': WHO Says HMPV Spike Linked To Seasonal Trends Amid China Concerns - News18

'Not A New Virus': WHO Says HMPV Spike Linked To Seasonal Trends Amid China Concerns - News18

The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Wednesday clarified that the surge in cases of seasonal flu, rhinovirus, RSV and hMPV in China recently, this spike follows typical seasonal patterns.

"Human metapneumovirus #hMPV is NOT a new virus. First identified in 2001, it has been in the human population for a long time. It is a common virus that circulates in winter and spring. It usually causes respiratory symptoms similar to the common cold."

– @who pic.twitter.com/zojxwNLgH8

— United Nations Geneva (@UNGeneva) January 7, 2025

“China’s reported levels of respiratory infections are within the usual range for the winter season. Authorities report that hospital utilization is currently lower than this time last year, and there have been no emergency declarations or responses triggered," WHO spokesperson Dr. Margaret Harris told reporters in Geneva.

The UN health agency spokesperson said that respiratory infections are increasing in China, “as expected during winter," with seasonal flu being “the most common," according to the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Dr. Harris explained that hMPV, first identified in 2001, “has been present in the human population for a long time".

Dr. Harris pointed out that hMPV is a typical virus that spreads during winter and spring and is known to cause respiratory symptoms similar to those of a common cold.

She explained that, like many other viruses associated with the common cold, hMPV can sometimes cause more severe illness in individuals with weakened immunity. This also includes newborns and elderly individuals, who are particularly vulnerable but is not limited to them.

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When questioned about the mortality rate of hMPV, Dr. Harris highlighted that it is “extremely low".

She noted that this virus does not typically result in fatalities, except in cases involving the most at-risk groups. To reduce the chances of infection, she recommended basic preventative steps, such as wearing a mask, ensuring proper ventilation in enclosed spaces and maintaining hand hygiene.