Five years after COVID-19 outbreak, China has a new health concern: the sudden outbreak of HMPV in the country. According to sources, the viral infection is growing at an exponential rate, thereby overloading health facilities and crematories, all of which could be seen online through social media posts and videos that have surfaced on the viral network. Amid these concerns, other respiratory illnesses like influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and COVID-19 are said to be also circulating simultaneously with the same conditions, making a heavy strain on the health services. As of this, neither the Chinese government nor the WHO has given official warnings or declared any emergency in these cases.

To combat this upsurge, Chinese health authorities have implemented a pilot system to track cases of pneumonia with unknown origins. This new initiative was launched by China's disease control agency to increase preparedness for respiratory outbreaks during the winter months, a drastic change from the way the nation responded to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This outbreak has affected mostly vulnerable populations, including children whose immune systems are still developing and elderly persons who have a pre-existing respiratory disease. The symptoms of HMPV tend to be those of a cold or flu-like illness, characterized by fever, coughing, and nasal congestion. In some cases, these infections can develop into bronchitis or pneumonia, which significantly increase the risk of complications for individuals with diseases like asthma or COPD.

Despite the similarities to COVID, this virus is very different and was infact identified way back in 2001 and it has been circulating in the entire world since many years. HMPV is not a new virus, and far less worrisome.

Read for HMPV Virus Symptoms , Causes , Treatment and Prevention

What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?

First identified in the Netherlands in 2001, human metapneumovirus is a respiratory RNA virus within the Paramyxoviridae family. It is a seasonal virus, most actively circulating during the winter and spring seasons. This virus is responsible for one of the most significant causes of hospitalization in the acute respiratory infection (ARI) category among young children, after RSV.

Research indicates that almost all children older than five years have been infected with HMPV, although the immunity developed against subsequent infections is partial. Though it is more of a cold-season disease, cases have been reported throughout the year, with the prevalence of the disease fluctuating every year.

Is HMPV Contagious?

HMPV is commonly spread through contaminated respiratory droplets from infected person to person often by cough, sneeze, or the transfer of aerosolized microorganisms from touch of contaminated fingers on doorknobs and toys. Similar to RSV and influenza within the United States, HMPV follows an annual peak or surge that mostly occurs during winters and springs in many parts.

Human metapneumovirus Symptoms

HMPV infections are highly similar to some of the classic symptoms of 'common cold', they include:

• Fever
• Coughing
• Nasal congestion
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Nausea and vomiting

Most symptoms of bronchiolitis go away in a few days. However, more severe cases may lead to complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia, or even life-threatening conditions. Sometimes, young children may suffer from severe bronchiolitis that can be fatal.

Who Is Most at Risk?

While HMPV can affect all age groups, it significantly affects the following:

Those with immature immune systems are highly susceptible to developing severe complications like bronchiolitis or pneumonia.

Individuals with conditions such as COPD, asthma, or pulmonary fibrosis have a higher chance of developing serious symptoms.

People who are undergoing chemotherapy or have recently received an organ transplant are highly vulnerable.

Also Read: What Is Disease X? Preparing For The Next Global Threat

How Is HMPV Diagnosed and Treated?

Diagnosis of HMPV is usually based on a physical examination, patient history, and laboratory tests. In severe cases, advanced diagnostic techniques, like bronchoscopy, are applied to confirm the virus. Treatment is usually symptomatic as there are no specific antiviral therapies or vaccines for HMPV. Some treatments according to the American Lung Association include:

- Over-the-counter medications for relieving fever and pain.

- Inhalers or corticosteroids to control wheezing or harsh coughing.

- Prednisone is the prescription medication only in extreme conditions.

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) vs. COVID-19 HMPV and COVID-19 have similarities in their transmission modes and respiratory symptoms. HMPV is a seasonal virus, mostly surfacing during winter and spring. COVID-19, on the other hand, is a year-round virus, with emerging variants.

Surprisingly, the number of cases for other respiratory viruses, such as HMPV, rose drastically during this time as restrictions against COVID-19 relaxed. Scientific evidence shows that during the lockdowns, fewer instances of contact with regular viruses resulted in a vulnerability to them, including HMPV, after restrictions eased.

Is HMPV Preventable?

The only prevention from the virus, however is to avoid contracting it in the first place, particularly for high-risk populations. Dr. Sunil Kumar K, Lead Consultant - Interventional Pulmonology explains, "Preventive strategies include maintaining good hand hygiene, wearing masks in crowded places, and practicing respiratory etiquette, such as covering coughs and sneezes. It's also advisable to avoid close contact with individuals exhibiting respiratory symptoms. Given the absence of a vaccine, these measures are crucial in controlling the spread of the virus."

"While HMPV shares transmission characteristics with COVID-19, such as spread through respiratory droplets, it is generally less severe. However, co-circulation with other respiratory pathogens, including influenza and Mycoplasma pneumonia, as reported in China, can complicate clinical outcomes and pose additional challenges to public health systems.

Continuous surveillance and public awareness are vital in managing this outbreak. Learning from the COVID-19 pandemic, early detection, transparent communication, and adherence to preventive measures are key to mitigating the impact of HMPV and safeguarding public health."

Individuals with chronic conditions of the respiratory system should keep their environment, very clean and shy away from contaminated areas.

As respiratory illnesses continue to rise in China, health experts stress the importance of proactive measures and public awareness. While HMPV is typically mild, its potential to cause severe complications in vulnerable groups underscores the need for vigilance. For now, a combination of symptom management, robust healthcare systems, and effective monitoring initiatives will be critical in managing this growing health challenge.

Dr. Sunil Kumar K is the Lead Consultant - Interventional Pulmonology at Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore in India

Human Metapneumovirus and Other Respiratory Viral Infections during Pregnancy and Birth, Nepal. Emerg Infect Dis. 2017

Human metapneumovirus and respiratory syncytial virus: subtle differences but comparable severity. Infect Dis Rep. 2010

Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV). American Lung Association.

Two passengers travelling in Singapore airlines arrived in New Zealand with measles symptoms. However, reported The Strait Times, that they are not linked to any other known cases, as noted by the Communicable Disease Agency (CDA).

The agency told the media outlet that it was notified on February 25 that two Singapore Airlines (SIA) passengers infected with measles landed in Auckland, New Zealand. Both were from the same household and flown from Hyderabad, India. They transited in Singapore for two hours before boarding an SIA flight to Auckland.

CDA investigation also revealed that these two cases remained in the transit area at Changi Airport. Associate Professor Lim Poh Lian, group director of the CDA's Communicable Disease Programmes, as reported by The Strait Times noted that the individuals were reported to have developed symptoms only while onboard the flight from Singapore to Auckland.

New Zealand media earlier reported that the two cases were detected after the individuals arrived in Auckland on flight SQ281 on February 17. The country’s public health authority began tracing passengers seated in rows 31 to 46 on the same flight, along with people who were present in the waiting area of Waitakere Hospital’s Emergency Department on February 21.

“Based on the onset of their symptoms, they were infected before transiting through Singapore and are not linked to any other known measles cases in Singapore,” Prof Lim said.

She also clarified that their time in transit through Singapore did not coincide with that of a previously reported measles case involving a passenger who had passed through Singapore en route to Los Angeles in the United States.

What Is Measles?

Measles has a high transmissibility, and high measles immunity levels are required to prevent sustained measles virus transmission.

This is why herd immunity for measles could be easily breached.

It easily spreads from one infected person to another through breathes, coughs or sneezes and could cause severe disease, complications, and even death.

Symptoms include:

• High fever
• Cough
• Runny Nose
• Rash all over the body

The most unique symptom or the early sign of measles in the Koplik spots. These are tiny white dots that look like grains of salt on red gums inside the cheeks that appear before the red rash starts to appear on a person's face and then the body.

Furthermore, the symptoms of measles are also characterized by the three Cs:

• Cough
• Coryza or runny nose
• Conjunctivitis or red and water eyes

Update On The Passengers Who Landed In New Zealand

The passenger on flight SQ38 arrived at Los Angeles International Airport at about 7pm on February 9, after a roughly two-and-a-half-hour transit at Changi Airport following a flight from Cambodia.

Prof Lim said the most effective protection against measles is to be fully vaccinated before travelling. She also advised travellers to practise good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly and avoiding close contact with anyone who is unwell.

Anyone who develops symptoms like fever, rash, cough, red or watery eyes, or a runny nose should wear a mask, seek medical care promptly, and inform their doctor about their recent travel and any possible exposure to measles, she added.

In response to queries, Singapore Airlines told The Straits Times that it is working closely with the authorities but cannot share specific details due to customer confidentiality.

In a major push towards eliminating cervical cancer from India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today launched the nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination program for girls aged 14 years.

The new vaccination drive comes as cervical cancer remains the second most common cancer among women in India, with nearly 80,000 new cases and over 42,000 deaths reported annually. As per data from the ICMR-National Cancer Registry Program (NCRP), an estimated 78,499 new cases and 42,392 deaths were reported in 2024.

Calling it a "decisive step”, the government noted that it is aimed at “strengthening the vision of ‘swasth nari’ (healthy women) while being rooted in scientific evidence, strict regulatory oversight and global best practices”.

“India's vaccination drive reflects safety, responsibility, and long-term commitment to women’s health,” it added.

The national program will use Gardasil, a quadrivalent HPV vaccine that protects against HPV types 16 and 18, which cause cervical cancer, as well as types 6 and 11.

However, social media has been rife with concerns around the safety of the vaccine, its impact on women’s reproductive health, among others.

HPV Vaccine: The Myths And Facts

Myth: HPV vaccines can cause severe side effects and even death.

Fact: The HPV vaccines come with a “confirmed strong safety record”.

“Extensive global monitoring shows a strong safety profile supported by scientific reviews. Independent evaluations have found no causal link between vaccination and chronic harm, strengthening confidence in its continued use worldwide,” the government said.

The vaccine has been licensed in India since 2008, and the new rollout follows recommendations by the World Health Organization (WHO) and approvals from the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI).

“HPV vaccines have been given to hundreds of millions globally. Extensive post-marketing surveillance shows an excellent safety profile, with no causal link to serious adverse outcomes. The evidence is robust, transparent, and reassuring,” Dr. CS Pramesh, Director of the Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, shared in a post on the social media platform X.

Myth: The HPV vaccine has never been used in India

Fact: The vaccine has been in use in India. It has been administered for years since 2008 with successful implementation in states like Punjab, Sikkim, and Tamil Nadu.

Myth: HPV vaccination does not prevent cervical cancer

Fact: The HPV vaccine has been proven to prevent cervical cancer

Studies show a 65 percent drop in cervical cancer cases among US women between 2012 and 2019 and an 88-89 percent reduction in precancerous lesions among Scottish women over a decade.

Countries with early HPV vaccine adoption have also shown large declines in HPV infection, high-grade cervical lesions, and cervical cancer incidence.

"Even when considering the rarest side effects, HPV vaccines are overwhelmingly safe. The protection they offer against cervical cancer far outweighs the minimal risks. Parents are encouraged to vaccinate their daughters on time," said Dr. Neena Malhotra, Professor and Head of Department, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AIIMS New Delhi on X.

Myths: Are Multiple Doses Needed?

Fact: A single dose of the quadrivalent HPV vaccine is effective. It provides strong protection against HPV infection. It helps prevent cervical cancer.

“Strong global and Indian scientific evidence confirms that a single dose provides robust and durable protection when administered to girls in the recommended age group," the government said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today launched the nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign for girls aged 14 years from Rajasthan's Ajmer.

The initiative marks a decisive step towards eliminating cervical cancer through timely HPV vaccination. Cervical cancer remains the second most common cancer among women in India. Nearly 80,000 new cases and over 42,000 deaths are reported annually in the country.

"Today, I have had the opportunity to launch the HPV vaccine campaign from Ajmer. This campaign is an important step towards empowering women and daughters of this country,” PM Modi said.

“For us, this was a sensitive issue tied to the insult of our sisters and daughters, one that made them ill. That is why we resolved it at a crucial turning point in their mission,” he added.

The World Health Organization has also lauded India's mission to launch the HPV vaccine and prevent the risk of cervical cancer.

“We are leaving no stone unturned to ensure that the daughters of the country are healthy and prosperous. The objective of this initiative is the prevention of cervical cancer," the Prime Minister, earlier wrote in a post on social media platform X.

The HPV Vaccination Campaign

The nationwide program, based on expert recommendations of the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI), will target girls aged 14 years.

At 14, the HPV vaccine offers maximum preventive benefit, well before potential exposure to the virus.

"By prioritizing prevention at the right age, the program is expected to provide lifelong protection and significantly reduce the future burden of cervical cancer in the country," the government said.

“The HPV vaccine works best at 9-14 years, before exposure, and when the immune response is strongest. Studies show effectiveness is highest in younger age groups and decreases with age,” Dr. Parmod Kumar, Associate Professor in Medical Oncology, AIIMS Jodhpur, shared on X.

Vaccination under the national program will be voluntary and free of cost.

The HPV vaccination will be conducted exclusively at designated government health facilities, including Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (Primary Health Centers), Community Health Centers, Sub-District and District Hospitals, and Government Medical Colleges.

Cervical Cancer Burden In South East Asia

Despite being preventable, cervical cancer continues to claim the life of a woman every two minutes globally, and the WHO South-East Asia Region bears nearly one-quarter of the global burden.

Dr. Catharina Boehme, Officer-in-Charge, WHO South-East Asia, stated that the introduction of HPV vaccination at a national scale in India "will have a far-reaching impact". It will accelerate progress not only for the country, but for the region and the world, she said.

“This landmark step, led at the highest level of government, reflects India’s strong commitment to protecting adolescent girls from cervical cancer," said Dr. Boehme.

With today’s milestone, nine of the 10 countries in the Region now include HPV vaccination in their national immunization programs.

The WHO global targets for 2030 include vaccinating 90 percent of girls by age 15, screening 70 percent of women by ages 35 and 45, and ensuring 90 percent of women with pre-cancer and invasive cancer receive appropriate treatment.