Although HMPV and SARS-CoV-2 belong to different viral families, they have striking similarities.
China is experiencing an increase in respiratory diseases, including human metapneumovirus (HMPV). This virus has several similarities with the Covid-19 virus.
Although no state of emergency has been officially declared, the country’s health authorities have had protocols in place to combat unknown pathogens since December 2024. According to a Reuters report, the surge in respiratory infections – caused by influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Covid-19 and now HMPV – has raised concerns. In response, China’s disease control authority recently piloted a specific surveillance system for pneumonia of unknown origin, anticipating a seasonal peak in infections in winter and spring. The report highlighted an increasing trend in HMPV cases in the northern provinces, particularly among children under 14 years old.
Social media posts that appear to show overcrowded hospitals in China have increased public concern, with allegations that China has declared a state of emergency over the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPV). However, no official confirmation of these measures has been given. First identified in 2001, VPHM belongs to the pneumoviridae family, closely related to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
The virus usually causes mild upper respiratory symptoms, such as cough, runny nose, and sore throat. However, in young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems, the HMPV virus can cause serious complications, including pneumonia, bronchitis, and exacerbation of chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that HMPV infections have an incubation period of 3 to 6 days and symptoms can progress from a simple cold to severe respiratory distress.
Although HMPV and SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes Covid-19) belong to different viral families, they have striking similarities:
Respiratory disease: Both primarily target the respiratory system, causing mild to severe infections.
Transmission: Spread occurs through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces.
Symptoms: Fever, cough, sore throat, wheezing and shortness of breath are common.
Vulnerable groups: Children, the elderly and those who are immunocompromised are at higher risk.
Prevention: Standard measures such as hand hygiene, wearing a mask and social distancing help curb transmission.
However, the main difference is the availability of vaccination. Although there are effective vaccines against Covid-19, no vaccine is currently available against HMPV. In addition, antiviral treatments are limited for VPHM, unlike Covid-19 which benefits from treatments such as Paxlovid.
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China: Concern grows over increase in HMPV cases
