China battling flu surge, say doctors

ISTANBUL

Flu cases are outpacing human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases this winter, according to doctors from hospitals across China, downplaying foreign media claims of a surge in HMPV infections.

The flu-like illness can result in respiratory issues for individuals of all ages, especially young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems, daily South China Morning Post reported on Thursday.

Global media have reported that a rise in HMPV cases has "overwhelmed" hospitals, based on social media videos showing crowded wards.

The latest data from China’s Center for Disease Control and Prevention show a slight rise in cases, but a much larger increase in influenza cases, a pattern also observed by doctors across the country.

At Beijing's Children's Hospital, many children were receiving infusion treatment in the emergency room on Wednesday, but a doctor said most had the flu, with no reported cases of HMPV.

"Among the pathogens reported by China CDC, seasonal influenza is by far the most common and is increasing," WHO spokesperson Margaret Harris told a previous press briefing.

"China’s reported levels of respiratory infections are within the usual range for the winter season. Authorities report that hospital utilization is currently lower than this time last year, and there have been no emergency declarations or responses triggered," she added.

"Similar trends in rising influenza cases have been observed across the Northern Hemisphere, including parts of Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Caribbean, as part of the WHO’s Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System," she said.