Chinese Health Authorities Report Decline in HMPV Infections, Health Officials Ease Concerns

CHINA: The rate of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections in northern China is declining, according to a health official on Sunday, alleviating some concerns about a potential pandemic. HMPV, a flu-like virus related to the respiratory syncytial virus, typically causes symptoms such as fever, cough, and nasal congestion.

Wang Liping, a researcher at the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, clarified that HMPV is not a new virus and has been circulating in humans for several decades. She noted that the recent uptick in cases can be attributed to improved detection methods rather than a sudden emergence of the virus.

“Currently, the detection rate of HMPV cases is fluctuating, but there is a decline in the number of positive cases in northern provinces, and the rate of positive cases among children under 14 is also decreasing,” Wang said during a press briefing.

Concerns arose recently over a surge in HMPV infections in northern China, fueled by images circulating online showing hospitals overwhelmed with patients wearing masks. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that no unusual outbreaks have been reported in China or elsewhere.

Wang further reassured the public that the respiratory illnesses currently circulating in China are caused by known pathogens, with no new infectious diseases emerging.

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