3rd January 2025 – (Beijing) Recent reports indicate a rise in infections of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China, with symptoms resembling those of influenza and COVID-19. The Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has noted an increasing prevalence of HMPV, particularly among children aged 14 and under.
Dr. Wang Renxian, a prominent infectious disease expert from Taiwan, dismissed claims of a new virus outbreak, asserting that HMPV is not a novel pathogen. He stated that while there have been sporadic cases, the symptoms are generally mild and should not be misconstrued as a new epidemic.
According to the CDC, the positive rate for HMPV among cases in children has shown a fluctuating upward trend. Dr. Wang pointed out that the virus was first identified in 2001 by Dutch researchers and is primarily associated with lower respiratory tract infections, which are typically not severe. He highlighted that influenza remains the most prevalent respiratory virus during the winter months.
The CDC emphasised that HMPV can affect individuals of all ages, potentially leading to acute respiratory infections. In some cases, particularly in children, symptoms may include middle ear infections, diarrhoea, vomiting, rashes, and febrile seizures.
Despite being one of the major respiratory viruses, HMPV is not well-known and currently lacks a vaccine or specific antiviral treatments. Most patients recover within seven to ten days, but the immune protection following infection is limited, leaving individuals vulnerable to reinfection throughout their lives.
High-risk groups, including children under five, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals, may experience severe respiratory infections as a result of HMPV.
Transmission of the virus occurs similarly to other respiratory viruses, primarily through droplets from coughing and sneezing, as well as contact with contaminated surfaces. Notably, asymptomatic individuals can also spread the virus.
