![Pinterest](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://www.brandsynario.com/china-faces-covid-like-scare-again/&media=https://www.brandsynario.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/China-Faces-COVID-like-Scare-Again.jpg&description=Most of the cases being reported are children, as they're suffering from pneumonia and what is referred to as "white lung".){kind=link}
Once again, China is experiencing a new viral outbreak. This time, however, the virus is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), which travels fast and manifests flu-like symptoms that resemble COVID-19.
Hospitals Are Struggling to Keep Up
Hospitals in China are completely overwhelmed by multiple viruses, including Influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, COVID-19, and HMPV, all of which are currently circulating in the country. Most of the cases being reported are children, suffering from pneumonia and what is referred to as “white lung.”
Social Media Fuels Concerns
Social media posts claim that hospitals and even crematories are under pressure. One post on X stated, “China is facing a surge in multiple viruses, including Influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Covid-19, overwhelming hospitals and crematoriums.” While there are rumours of a state of emergency, officials have not confirmed this.
Respiratory Illnesses Rise in Winter
According to the experts, respiratory diseases such as HMPV and rhinovirus are rampant during the winter spring seasons. Kan Biao, a health officer, says that the total number of cases this year is likely to be less than that of last year. However, the cases of HMPV are increasing, especially among children under 14 years, in the northern regions.
Read more: WHO Urges China to Share More COVID-19 Data.
No Vaccine for HMPV Yet
In contrast with COVID-19, there is no known vaccine against HMPV. Many people do not realise they have HMPV because its symptoms usually resemble those of a cold. A respiratory expert in Shanghai advised against taking antiviral drugs indiscriminately to retain their proper usage.
Stay Cautious During the Flu Season
The situation highlights the need for vigilance during the flu season. Although officials are keeping a close eye on the outbreak, people are encouraged to wear a mask and maintain their hygiene to prevent getting infected.
China’s healthcare system is bracing for what could be a challenging winter, but experts hope the situation can be managed better than past outbreaks.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.