Hyderabad: Amid widespread social media speculation over visuals of crowded medical facilities in China, health experts and officials have dismissed fears of a major health emergency. The World Health Organisation (WHO) and China’s Centre for Disease Control and Prevention have not issued any alerts regarding the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus causing flu-like symptoms lasting two to five days.

HMPV primarily affects the upper and lower respiratory tracts, leading to symptoms akin to the common cold or flu, explained Dr. Ranga Reddy Burri, president of the Infection Control Academy of India. While most cases are mild, the virus can cause severe respiratory illness, particularly in vulnerable groups such as young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. Severe infections may lead to pneumonia or bronchiolitis, though fatalities are rare.

Dr. Burri criticized the exaggerated reports circulating on social media, stating they are driven more by sensationalism than by credible scientific evidence. “HMPV is not a new virus. It is well-documented, and healthcare professionals know how to manage it,” he assured. Atul Goyal, director-general of health services at the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, confirmed that no cases of HMPV have been reported in India so far.

In Telangana, the health department has been placed on alert as a precaution, said Dr. Ravindra Nayak, director of public health. He noted that while measures are being prepared, there is no immediate emergency. “We are in touch with the Centre and the WHO, and will act upon their guidelines if issued,” he said. Similarly, officials at Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport reported no advisories for screening passengers from China.