On January 4th, China reported a rise in Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases, raising public fears of a potential pandemic similar to COVID-19.
The Ministry of Health of China has confirmed an increase in cases, although no specific data has been released regarding the number of infected individuals. This announcement has raised global concerns, especially as images of crowded hospitals in China have been circulating on social media, leading many to fear that another crisis similar to COVID-19 might be developing. However, health experts have quickly reassured the public, emphasizing that HMPV is not a new virus.
In a report published by The Scottish Sun on 9 January, the news agency highlighted the increase in cases in China but also stressed that while the virus is contagious, it is not as dangerous as initially feared.
“Experts stress that HMPV is not the next COVID-19. It’s part of the common respiratory viruses that emerge during the winter season. While the virus can cause flu-like symptoms, it is usually mild, and the general public need not fear another pandemic,” the article stated.
China Global Television Network has reported that Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not a new virus. It has been circulating globally for over 60 years, although it was first identified in the early 2000s. Experts reassure the public that, while cases are increasing, HMPV follows the typical seasonal patterns characteristic of respiratory viruses. There is no indication that it poses a new pandemic threat.
