Rising virus infections in China monitored, EU remains calm
"We are aware of the situation in China, our medical agency is monitoring the situation," stated European Commission spokesperson Eva Hrnczirzova during a conference on Wednesday in Brussels. The Asian country has noted an increase in metapneumovirus infections. According to the EC, there is no need to prepare for a new pandemic at this time.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) is monitoring the situation in China, where since December 2024, there has been an increase in respiratory virus infections, including metapneumovirus (hMPV). This virus circulates regularly in the EU and EEA during the cooler months.
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, reports the ECDC.
Virus in China. European Commission's reaction
The ECDC emphasizes that the situation in China reflects a seasonal increase in infections and does not pose a threat to the EU. However, it recommends preparing for an increase in cases in the upcoming winter weeks.
In China, the increase in infections is particularly noticeable among children under the age of 14, with symptoms including high fever, cough, and sore throat. In some cases, the disease can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia.
Chinese authorities are downplaying reports of overloaded hospitals, indicating that the increase in illnesses is typical for the winter season. Currently, there is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for hMPV.
