China faces rise in respiratory infections
Health authorities in China have reported a rise in respiratory infections in the country’s northern regions since December 2024.
The Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says the increase includes cases of human metapneumovirus (hMPV), a virus that affects the respiratory system.
Human metapneumovirus is common during colder months and can cause mild to moderate illness. However, it can be severe in young children, older adults, and people with weak immune systems. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for hMPV.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has reviewed the situation in China and said the rise in cases appears to be seasonal.
"The current epidemiological situation in China reflects a seasonal rise in respiratory infections caused by common respiratory pathogens and does not pose any specific concern for the EU/EEA," the ECDC said.
In Europe, hMPV is usually most active in late winter and spring, often spreading alongside other respiratory viruses like the flu.
The ECDC recently advised its member countries to prepare for an increase in respiratory infections in the coming weeks. It also recommended strict infection prevention measures, especially in hospitals and care homes, to reduce the spread.
The ECDC and the World Health Organization (WHO) are working with Chinese health authorities to keep track of the situation.
Meanwhile, experts are continuing to monitor the spread of respiratory viruses globally. For now, health authorities in Europe and China are focusing on managing the seasonal wave of infections.
