No ‘unusual outbreak patterns’ in China respiratory cases - WHO

Metro Manila, Philippines - The World Health Organization (WHO) said China’s reported levels of acute respiratory cases, including infections from a virus causing cold-like symptoms, are within the expected range in winter.

Dr. Margaret Harris, WHO spokesperson, said the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention reported a rise in a number of common respiratory infections in the East Asian country.

Harris told a briefing on Tuesday, Jan. 7, that the infections were caused by “known ones,” including seasonal influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), human metapneumovirus (hMPV), and SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

What caused some concerns in social media, especially in the Philippines, is the reported cases of hMPV.

“It is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001. It's been in the human population for a long time,” Harris said.

She said that the hMPV is a “common virus” that circulates in winter and spring, usually causing respiratory symptoms “similar to the common cold.”

WHO said its global influenza surveillance and response system recorded rising trends in influenza in the northern hemisphere, where it is currently winter. Harris said the trend is registered in parts of Asia, Europe, Africa, and a few countries in the Caribbean.

“China’s reported levels of acute respiratory infections, including hMPV, are within the expected range for the winter season with no unusual outbreak patterns reported,” the WHO said in a news release.

“Chinese authorities confirmed that the health care system is not overwhelmed, hospital utilization is currently lower than this time last year, and there have been no emergency declarations or responses triggered,” the United Nations agency added.

Earlier, the Department of Health also dismissed a reported “international health concern,” as viral posts claimed there was an alleged “new epidemic” in China. 

The Chinese embassy in Manila also said it was “fake news.”