Is China facing new mysterious virus outbreak 5 years after Covid crisis? Reports claim...

Reports and social media posts suggest that the virus is spreading quickly, with claims that hospitals and crematoriums are overwhelmed

featured-image

China is facing a rapid outbreak of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), five years after the Covid-19 pandemic. Reports and social media posts suggest that the virus is spreading quickly, with claims that hospitals and crematoriums are overwhelmed. Videos online show crowded hospitals, with people reporting a surge in multiple viruses, including influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Covid-19.

Children's hospitals are reportedly under strain due to rising pneumonia and “white lung” cases, according to reports. Although some have claimed that China has declared a state of emergency, there has been no official confirmation. HMPV causes flu-like symptoms and can resemble Covid-19.



Health officials are monitoring the situation closely as respiratory illnesses are expected to increase during the winter. China’s National Disease Control and Prevention Administration announced a pilot monitoring system for pneumonia of unknown origin. This system aims to improve preparedness compared to five years ago when Covid-19 first emerged.

According to state broadcaster CCTV, the new system will help laboratories and agencies report and handle cases of unknown pathogens efficiently. Data released last week showed a rise in acute respiratory diseases, with infections increasing between December 16 and 22. Officials noted an upward trend in HMPV cases, especially among children under 14 in northern provinces.

Other detected pathogens include rhinovirus and Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Experts warn against the misuse of antiviral drugs for HMPV, as there is no vaccine for the virus, which often presents symptoms similar to the common cold. Officials expect respiratory infections to decline compared to last year but remain vigilant as the winter season progresses.

.