WHO on the metapneumovirus from China: it's a common virus that circulates during the winter and spring seasons.
The World Health Organization has stated that the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), which caused an outbreak in China, is not a new virus, as it was identified over 20 years ago. This virus, with its "updated" name, circulates during the winter-spring period.
According to RBK-Ukraine, this was announced by WHO spokesperson Margaret Harris during a briefing.
Harris mentioned that the reported respiratory infection cases in China are "within normal limits."
"This is what we would expect to see in winter," Harris stated.
Commenting on concerns in various countries regarding HMPV, which has caused a collapse of the healthcare system in China, the WHO spokesperson noted that hospital usage in China is lower than during the same period last year, and no emergencies have been declared or responses initiated regarding these respiratory infections.
"As for the human metapneumovirus, it is not a new virus. It was first discovered in 2001. It has been present in the human population for a long time. It is a common virus that circulates in winter and spring," Harris explained.
The WHO representative added that this virus typically "causes respiratory symptoms similar to those of a common cold."
"Human metapneumovirus #hMPV is not a new virus.
- United Nations Geneva (@UNGeneva) January 7, 2025
First identified in 2001, it has been in the human population for a long time. It is a common virus that circulates in winter and spring. It usually causes respiratory symptoms similar to those of a common cold."
- @who pic.twitter.com/zojxwNLgH8
How the virus spreads and how to protect yourself
Regarding the potential spread of HMPV among people, WHO pointed out that the metapneumovirus can be transmitted similarly to other respiratory viruses: through droplets when coughing or sneezing and through touch, such as handshakes or touching contaminated surfaces.
According to Harris, "simple measures" can help prevent the spread. Specifically, if symptoms occur, it is advisable to stay home and isolate oneself, wear masks, improve ventilation "where possible," and cover one's face with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
Who is at special risk
The WHO representative explained that certain individuals are at increased risk of severe illness from HMPV infections.
"In some cases, like any common cold virus, it can lead to more serious illnesses in people who lack immunity or have very weak immune systems," she stated.
Additionally, at-risk groups include young children, particularly newborns, and elderly individuals.
It is worth noting that on January 6, it was reported that there were 13 cases of metapneumovirus infection in Ukraine.
In a conversation with RBK-Ukraine, the head of the epidemiology department at the Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University and chief expert on biosafety at the National Security and Defense Council, Natalia Vinograd, mentioned that identifying metapneumovirus is very challenging. The epidemiologist emphasized that a pandemic, similar to COVID-19, should not be expected.
For more details on what is known about the metapneumovirus that is already spreading worldwide, read our separate article.