China Faces New Pandemic Threat, Viral Videos on Social Media Fuel Worries

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): China, the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic, is once again facing fears of a new health crisis. Videos and posts going viral on social media suggest a surge in cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), Influenza A, Mycoplasma Pneumonia, and COVID-19 in the country, leading to overcrowding in hospitals and crematoriums. These claims have sparked concerns over the possibility of a new pandemic.

In the viral videos, hospital waiting halls are shown crowded with patients, many wearing masks, while others are coughing. One particular video, shared on X (formerly Twitter), has garnered over 12 million views, claiming to show a hospital scene in China. However, these claims have not yet been officially confirmed. Neither Chinese health authorities nor the World Health Organization (WHO) has verified the reports of a new pandemic spreading in China.

HMPV is a respiratory virus that typically causes cold-like symptoms, such as coughing, fever, and a runny nose. The virus is particularly dangerous for young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. HMPV spreads similarly to COVID-19, through coughing, sneezing, or contact with contaminated surfaces.

Despite the growing concerns on social media, neither WHO nor Chinese health officials have issued an official statement regarding this alleged new pandemic. WHO has not declared an emergency or issued any major warnings regarding the outbreak. As of now, it is being viewed as a potential threat, with official confirmation still pending.