Respiratory virus HMPV surge in China: Is Türkiye at risk?

China is experiencing a significant increase in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases, particularly among children in its northern regions.

Health authorities attribute this rise to seasonal trends but remain cautious about its impact, given the virus’s similarities to other respiratory illnesses.

Human metapneumovirus present for decades

HMPV was first identified in the Netherlands in 2001. Experts believe it has been circulating for decades, with almost every child contracting the virus by age five.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reinfections occur throughout life, often with milder symptoms.

The virus causes symptoms like the flu, such as cough, fever, and nasal congestion. Severe cases can lead to pneumonia and bronchitis, especially in young children under two, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Hospitalization may be required for serious infections.

HMPV spreads easily through close contact

HMPV is highly contagious, spreading through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, and contact with contaminated surfaces. It thrives in colder months and is most active in late winter and early spring, when people spend more time indoors.

Although no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment exists for HMPV, health experts recommend wearing masks in crowded areas, practicing good hand hygiene, and avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals.

Dr. Hsu Li Yang, an infectious diseases specialist from Singapore, advises these precautions for those at higher risk of severe illness.

Surge in human metapneumovirus cases in China aligns with seasonal trends

China’s current spike in HMPV cases coincides with the cold weather expected to last until March. Similar increases in HMPV cases have been reported in the United States and the United Kingdom since late 2024.

Epidemiologist Jacqueline Stephens from Flinders University in Australia states that these trends align with typical winter patterns.

Chinese health officials, including Kan Biao of the China Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, report a rise in cases among children under 14. However, they refute claims of overwhelmed hospitals.

Some local media compared the situation to the early days of COVID-19, fueling speculation. The World Health Organization (WHO) assessed the situation and confirmed it falls within expected winter respiratory illness ranges. WHO officials emphasized that no extraordinary measures are necessary.

Experts stress differences between human metapneumovirus, COVID-19

This increase in HMPV cases occurred 5 years after the emergence of COVID-19, which originated in China and claimed over seven million lives globally.

The similarities in origin have heightened public attention, but experts clarify that HMPV is a well-known virus with significant population immunity.

Dr. Paul Hunter, a medical professor at the University of East Anglia, notes, “Almost every child will have at least one infection with HMPV by their fifth birthday, and we can expect multiple reinfections throughout life. There is no indication of a more serious global issue.”

China has implemented a pilot system to monitor unexplained pneumonia cases—a step aimed at preventing future health crises.

These measures reflect improved preparedness compared to the early days of COVID-19. Public health officials encourage maintaining standard precautions while avoiding unnecessary alarms.