China Faces New Virus Outbreak Five Years After Covid Crisis

Reports indicate a rapid spread of HMPV, which presents symptoms similar to flu and Covid-19, raising concerns among health officials. Videos showed crowded hospitals, with unverified claims of a state of emergency in China. The situation has sparked fears of a potential pandemic five years after Covid-19 disrupted global life.

However, no credible sources have confirmed these claims. Chinese health authorities and the World Health Organisation (WHO) have not reported a new pandemic or issued any emergency warnings. The WHO has also not declared any health crisis related to HMPV.

The American Lung Association identifies human metapneumovirus (HMPV) as a significant cause of acute respiratory infections. Discovered in 2001 by researchers in the Netherlands, HMPV typically spreads through close contact with infected individuals, either via respiratory secretions from coughing or sneezing or by touching contaminated surfaces like toys or doorknobs.