HMPV is not a virus that causes severe pneumonia or causes deaths like Covid did in the first part of the pandemic, according to the expert

China is recording a surge in respiratory infections, including human metapneumovirus (HMPV), prompting concerns about an outbreak. The most affected are children and seniors. The World Health Organisation has not declared an emergency.

Recent reports from China have highlighted a worrying increase in respiratory infections, with hospitals facing overcrowding and health systems under pressure. Viral videos from China have been circulating all over the internet, worrying people about yet another epidemic.

Human metapneumovirus or HMPV belongs to the Pneumoviridae family along with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, US.

China is witnessing the rapid spread of a virus reminiscent of COVID-19, identified as Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). According to state media, the

China pilots monitoring system for pneumonia of unknown origin amid rising respiratory infections, including human metapneumovirus, in winter and spring.

With alarming videos of packed hospitals flooding social media, concerns rise over a potential HMPV outbreak in China. Here’s everything you need to know.