China Faces Surge in Human Metapneumovirus Cases, Children Most Affected

A new virus outbreak has emerged in China, showing symptoms similar to COVID-19, five years after the initial pandemic began. The new virus, identified as Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), is an RNA virus and has been causing widespread concern.

The symptoms of this virus closely resemble those of COVID-19, including fever, cough, nasal congestion, and a sore throat. The most affected group is young children, particularly those under the age of two, who are experiencing the most severe effects.

According to the China Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cases of HMPV, along with Influenza A, Mycoplasma Pneumonia, and COVID-19, have been steadily increasing, contributing to a rise in the number of patients.

Reports on social media have claimed that after the virus spread, China declared an emergency in several areas. Images of overcrowded hospitals and crematoriums have circulated, raising alarm about the severity of the situation. However, there has been no official confirmation from the Chinese government regarding the declaration of an emergency.

The CDC has stated that individuals suffering from conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are at a higher risk of infection. The virus spreads primarily through coughing and sneezing, and if the infection becomes severe, it can lead to bronchitis and pneumonia.

According to Reuters, China is also testing a surveillance system to manage the spread of the virus and monitor the rising number of cases.