HMPV: Five years after the COVID-19 pandemic, another mysterious virus has caused chaos in China. Hospitals are overwhelmed with patients, and people are terrified. The country is experiencing an emergency-like situation.
The coronavirus pandemic originated in China, and now, five years later, another dangerous virus has intensified the crisis. This new virus is being identified as Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), which is said to be as contagious and deadly as the COVID-19 virus. Hundreds of deaths have already been reported. Some reports and social media posts suggest that multiple virus attacks are taking place in China, with Influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma Pneumonia, and COVID-19 viruses spreading rapidly. Hospitals and crematoriums are overwhelmed with crowds, and videos shared online show overcrowded hospitals.
There are also claims that China is experiencing an emergency-like situation, though there has been no official confirmation. HMPV flu exhibits symptoms similar to the coronavirus. Health officials are closely monitoring the situation after the virus outbreak. It can also be referred to as a mysterious pneumonia in common language.
Multiple Virus Attacks in China
A social media post by an account named “SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)” stated, “China is facing a surge in several viruses, including Influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma Pneumonia, and COVID-19. Hospitals and crematoriums are overcrowded. Children in China are suffering from pneumonia and ‘White Lung’ diseases.”
According to Reuters, China’s disease control authority mentioned last Friday that it is closely studying cases of mysterious pneumonia, as respiratory issues tend to increase during the winter season.
What is Human Metapneumovirus?
Experts say that this virus has existed for at least six decades and has spread globally as a common respiratory illness. It mainly spreads through coughing and sneezing. People can also get infected through contact with infected individuals or contaminated environments. The effects of the virus usually begin to show within three to five days.
In an official statement released on Thursday, China reported a record surge in respiratory problems between December 16 and 22. Health official Kan Biao mentioned that China is likely to see various respiratory infections during the winter and spring seasons. However, he did not provide specific details but suggested that the total number of cases this year may be lower compared to last year.
