New Virus Outbreak in China Raises Concerns Five Years After COVID-19

CNChina|

China is currently facing an outbreak of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus that predominantly affects children, the immunocompromised, and the elderly. This development comes five years after the initial COVID-19 pandemic, prompting health authorities to recommend safety measures, including wearing masks and frequent handwashing.

According to China's CDC, HMPV is an RNA virus belonging to the Pneumoviridae family, first identified in 2001. The virus spreads mainly through respiratory droplets expelled during coughing and sneezing and is typically most prevalent in winter and spring. Symptoms of HMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and wheezing and can lead to severe respiratory conditions like bronchitis and pneumonia, particularly in high-risk populations.

As local authorities observe an increase in respiratory infections, especially in northern provinces, they have implemented protocols for laboratory reporting and case verification. Recommendations include maintaining hygiene, avoiding crowded places, and ensuring proper ventilation indoors.

Following reports of the outbreak, interest in HMPV surged online, with it becoming the second most-searched topic on Google in India. This reflects rising public concern over the potential spread of HMPV internationally.

Weekly Newsletter

Loading...

More from China

China Claims Development of Hypersonic Missiles Capable of Global Strikes in 30 Minutes

Chinese scientists have reportedly developed hypersonic missiles that can strike any location on Earth within 30 minutes, based on a recent publication in the academic journal Acta Aeronautica et Astronautica Sinica. These missiles are equipped with a re-entry glide vehicle (RGV) capable of traveling at speeds up to Mach 20, or approximately 13,000 kilometers per hour, allowing for rapid changes in direction that complicate detection by traditional defense systems. The advancement follows India's successful Operation Sindoor, where the BrahMos missile penetrated Pakistani defense systems, highlighting the evolving dynamics in global defense technology. Major powers, including the United States and Britain, are also advancing in hypersonic technology, with an expected readiness date for their joint project in 2030. India is progressing in this domain as well, having tested its own hypersonic missile technology and actively developing the BrahMos-2 missile. Experts assert that despite having advanced air defense systems, India must bolster its capabilities to address the challenges posed by these emerging hypersonic threats.
CNChina

Sudden Storm Capsizes Tourist Boats in China, Leaving 10 Dead

A sudden storm caused four tourist boats to capsize in Guizhou province, China, on May 5, resulting in the tragic deaths of ten people, according to state broadcaster CCTV. Over 80 individuals were thrown into the Wu River as strong winds and hail struck the scenic area during a busy national holiday. Initial reports mentioned only two boats capsizing, but officials later confirmed that four were involved, with two containing no passengers. The seven crew members on these boats managed to save themselves. Approximately 70 people were treated for injuries, most of which were minor. Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered extensive rescue efforts and emphasized the need for improved safety precautions at tourist sites following a series of accidents. Eyewitnesses noted that while some managed to swim to safety, the storm appeared abruptly, shrouding the river in mist. The boats involved had a capacity of around 40 passengers each and were reportedly not overloaded at the time of the incident.
CNChina

China’s Global Campaign of Dissent Suppression Exposed

A recent investigation reveals China's extensive and systematic efforts to suppress dissent among its diaspora, employing tactics of transnational repression. Interviews conducted by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) with over 100 victims across 23 countries highlight the extensive extent of these efforts, which reportedly include surveillance, coercion of relatives, and cyber harassment. Jiang Shengda, a prominent activist based in France, described receiving threats against his family in China aimed at silencing his protests against President Xi Jinping’s government. China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied any allegations of transnational repression, asserting such claims are unfounded “fabrications” meant to slander the nation. Conversely, experts describe these methods, including intimidation, hacking, and economic sanctions, as an extension of the Chinese Communist Party's repressive strategies. The findings point to a greater challenge for democratic nations, which often lack the requisite tools and understanding to combat these sophisticated tactics effectively. As activists like Jiang speak out in the face of threats, the international community grapples with the ramifications of China's expanding influence on global freedoms.
CNChina
All China News ->