The Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a sharp increase in respiratory viral infections, including human metapneumovirus (hMPV) infections, in northern China since December 2024.
Human metapneumovirus can affect all age groups and normally causes mild-to-moderate respiratory illness but sometimes the infection can be severe in young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. In the EU/EEA, hMPV is most active during late winter and spring, often circulating alongside other respiratory viruses. There is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment available for hMPV. For more information: LINK.
Based on the current information, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) considers that 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.
Follow media and official reports. Practice hand hygiene.
Reminder: At risk person should be vaccinated against flu and SARS-Cov2 according to national guidelines.
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