BEIJING, CHINA, Jan 3: China is witnessing a sharp rise in respiratory illnesses, with reports highlighting the rapid spread of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) alongside other infections such as influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Covid-19. The situation has sparked concerns on social media, with claims suggesting hospitals and crematories are overwhelmed.
Videos circulating online depict crowded hospitals, underscoring the strain on the healthcare system. Unverified reports of a state of emergency have also surfaced, though these remain speculative.
HMPV, which presents symptoms similar to the flu and Covid-19, is under close observation by health authorities. Experts are monitoring the situation as efforts to manage the outbreak intensify. Meanwhile, the public has been urged to remain vigilant and adhere to health guidelines to mitigate the spread of infections.
A post from the X handle “SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19)” stated: ” China’s Metapneumovirus Outbreak Continues to Surge, Hospitals Overwhelmed as Children Are Infected. China is grappling with a human metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak, with children and the elderly most affected.
“The symptoms of infection are similar to those of ordinary flu. Some cases are influenza A, while others are a combination of influenza A and COVID-19.
People in Xianyang, Shaanxi, reported that it is likely not H1N1, but a new wave of the epidemic, which is quite serious. They also noted that local hospitals are overcrowded, and the severity of the illness has raised concerns.
Experts said that HMPV infection could lead to pneumonia or severe illness, especially infants and children and those with weakened immunity should be extra vigilant. Experts suggest that wearing masks and washing hands frequently can reduce the risk of transmission.
