Pakistan’s National Institute of Health (NIH) has confirmed that Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), which is spreading rapidly in China, has been present in Pakistan for more than two decades, as the virus, similar to that seen in China, appeared for the first time. registered in Pakistan in 2001.
In a statement issued from its headquarters in Islamabad, the NIH mentioned that cases of HMPV have been reported in Pakistan since 2001, with 21 cases specifically observed at Islamabad’s PIMS hospital in 2015.
The Pakistani government is closely monitoring the situation in China, where the virus is spreading rapidly, as a meeting of the National Command and Operation Center (NCOC) was convened on Tuesday to assess the situation and take necessary measures.
The NIH clarified that the World Health Organization (WHO) has not yet issued any advisory regarding the HMPV virus.
Medical experts believe that HMPV cases are not uncommon and currently, seasonal flu, especially types A and B, is also circulating in Pakistan, with several cases reported.
HMPV has been present around the world for more than 60 years, but was first diagnosed in 2000. According to experts, the virus spreads slowly.
HMPV cases have been increasing in China since December 2024, with the United States also reporting cases as of April 2024.
Experts have advised that people with symptoms such as severe cough, chest pain, runny nose, fever and difficulty breathing should consult a doctor immediately, especially older people and children, who should be taken to hospital.
Although the virus has been confirmed to be spreading in China, no widespread outbreaks have been reported in other countries.
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus with flu-like symptoms, is a major cause for concern. The disease can cause complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.
While no vaccine has been developed for HMPV, it remains a contagious virus that is transmitted through respiratory droplets, coughing, and sneezing.
This increase in respiratory infections has raised alarm bells in neighboring countries, including India, Indonesia and Japan, where authorities have advised citizens to take necessary precautions.
As the winter season continues, Chinese authorities maintain that the situation is under control and urge citizens and visitors to remain alert but not panic.
