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HMPV virus – latest: EU monitoring cases amid soaring infections across China

Cases of the flu-like virus have spiked across northern Chinese provinces this winter

Thursday 09 January 2025 17:44 GMT

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The European Union is monitoring cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) amid an outbreak of the disease in China.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control said cases across Europe were not unusual for this time of year, but would continue to assess the situation.

“ECDC continues to monitor the situation in collaboration with the Chinese CDC and WHO/EURO to gather additional information,” it said.

The virus, which causes flu or cold-like symptoms, has seen cases spiking across northern Chinese provinces this winter, particularly among children.

Photos and videos of people wearing masks in hospitals in China emerged on social media platforms and local reports compared the scenes to the initial outbreak of Covid.

Meanwhile, Indonesia has started monitoring flights from China and Malaysia amid concern over rising HMPV infections across the region.

Those travelling to Bali will have to fill out a form three days before their arrival to the island providing a record of passengers’ health, according to local health authorities.