WHO Responds to Exaggerated Claims of HMPV Surge in China

The headquarters of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Geneva, Switzerland, has addressed claims made by various international media outlets regarding a supposed spike in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in China. These reports suggest that hospitals are being overwhelmed; however, the WHO has clarified that HMPV is not new to the medical community. It usually presents symptoms similar to those of the common cold, and current reports from China indicate that levels of respiratory infections are consistent with what is typically expected during the winter months.

Chinese authorities have stated that hospital utilization is currently lower than it was at this time last year, and there have been no declarations of emergencies related to respiratory illnesses. In response to foreign media coverage, which includes outlets such as CNN, BBC, and the Washington Post, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun reassured that the government will continue to provide timely and transparent information about infectious diseases according to legal requirements.

The WHO further explained that they have been in contact with the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), confirming a seasonal rise in respiratory infections. This increase coincides with winter patterns and is monitored through a robust sentinel surveillance system for influenza and other severe respiratory diseases. The pathogens identified as causing these infections have been recognized, including seasonal influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), HMPV, and SARS-CoV-2.

Among these, seasonal influenza is the most prevalent, showing an increasing trend. The WHO noted that HMPV has been circulating since its discovery in 2001 but has gained more awareness in China over the last two years due to improved pathogen detection technology and heightened public concern regarding respiratory infections following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Li Tongzeng, chief physician at Beijing You'an Hospital, highlighted that advancements in nucleic acid testing technologies have led to greater detection rates of respiratory pathogens like HMPV. Furthermore, the establishment of numerous sentinel hospitals has improved monitoring capabilities, allowing for more comprehensive updates on circulating respiratory pathogens. Over the past two years, significant progress has also been made in drug stockpiling to prepare for these infections, which has bolstered the country's responsiveness to respiratory disease outbreaks.