New deadly metapneumovirus sweeping China Another global pandemic?

A mysterious illness causing flu-like symptoms and overwhelming hospitals in China has reportedly reached the UK, sparking concerns among health experts and the public alike. 

The disease, identified as human metapneumovirus (hMPV), is said to cause symptoms resembling a mild cold but has been linked to severe respiratory conditions in some cases, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

Surge in China’s hospitals

Reports from China describe overcrowded hospitals, particularly those treating children with symptoms such as fever, persistent coughs, and sore throats. Social media platforms have been flooded with posts highlighting the alarming situation. In Shenyang, the largest city in Liaoning Province, hospitals are reportedly at capacity, leaving many patients struggling to access care.

A doctor from Jiangsu Province shared a troubling update on Xiaohongshu, a Chinese social media platform, revealing the presence of a previously unknown virus causing pneumonia and respiratory failure. According to the doctor, the virus, while less contagious than COVID-19, has a much higher fatality rate. Out of 30 patients treated, six succumbed to the illness, and three others were in critical condition.

hMPV spreading in the UK

A study on the UK government’s health surveillance website confirmed the presence of hMPV on British shores. The report showed a slight increase in hMPV positivity to 4.5% between December 23 and 29 last year, with the highest positivity rate of 10% recorded among children under five. This coincides with the sharp rise in cases observed in China.

Interestingly, while other influenza-like illnesses, such as Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, and Rhinovirus, have been declining in the UK, hMPV cases have been climbing. This trend has sparked fears of a potential outbreak akin to the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Growing concerns over "White Lung" cases

China’s health authorities are reportedly piloting a new system to monitor cases of undetermined pneumonia, a move that has drawn comparisons to the monitoring efforts at the start of the COVID-19 crisis. The term "White Lung," frequently used to describe severe pneumonia, has resurfaced in discussions about the new illness.

Despite online rumors of a state of emergency in China, neither the Chinese government nor the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued an official statement regarding the situation.

Global complications

The situation has raised global concerns about the potential spread of hMPV and its implications for public health. While hMPV is not as contagious as COVID-19, its apparent ability to cause severe respiratory conditions and its higher fatality rate warrant vigilance.

Health experts in the UK are urging the public to take precautions, particularly during the winter season when respiratory illnesses are more prevalent. Further investigations into the virus and its impact on global health are expected in the coming weeks.

By Khagan Isayev