China’s Foreign Ministry has dismissed claims about an “unknown” respiratory virus as fearmongering, stating the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been documented for at least 60 years.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Wednesday that respiratory infections in China are currently lower than last year’s levels, despite typical winter increases in the Northern Hemisphere.
The World Health Organization confirmed China’s assessment, reporting that acute respiratory infections, including those from seasonal influenza, RSV, and hMPV, remain within expected ranges for the winter season.
Chinese health authorities report their healthcare system is not overwhelmed, with hospital utilization lower than the same period last year. No emergency declarations have been triggered.
Influenza remains the primary cause of respiratory illness across most age groups, except for children aged 5-14, where mycoplasma pneumonia shows the highest positivity rate. COVID-19 activity remains low, though there has been an increase in severe cases.
China maintains regular communication with WHO regarding respiratory diseases and has implemented sentinel surveillance for acute respiratory infections. Health officials have provided public guidance on protective measures.
The Foreign Ministry emphasized its commitment to ensuring safe travel conditions for both Chinese citizens and foreign nationals while urging personal responsibility for health protection.