As HMPV circulates in China, how should we talk about foreign disease outbreaks?

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been making headlines recently due to an increase in hospitalizations in Northern China. However, it’s important to note that HMPV is not a new virus and was actually isolated in the Netherlands in the early 2000s. The virus is a respiratory virus that causes symptoms similar to the common cold, including coughing, a runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, and fever.

Dr. Satchan Takaya, a clinical associate professor and division head of infectious diseases at the University of Saskatchewan, explains that HMPV spreads through droplets and surface contact and can live on surfaces for a few hours. While the virus is not more contagious than other cold viruses, children, adolescents, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to severe illness.

HMPV cases typically increase during the cold winter months, and current case counts in China and around the world are at expected levels. In Canada, HMPV represents 1.4% of respiratory infection cases, compared to 11.8% for influenza.

The COVID-19 pandemic has sensitized the public to the diversity of diseases that can infect humans. Public health officials and media need to responsibly share information about disease outbreaks, providing context and transparent, evidence-based messaging. Clear and consistent communication, along with the dissemination of information in accessible forms, is essential to combat misinformation and increase public trust.

It is important to avoid stigmatizing certain countries or populations when discussing disease outbreaks. Disease outbreaks are natural occurrences exacerbated by human actions, and it is crucial to avoid assigning blame to specific groups or regions. By providing comprehensive and transparent information, we can help the public understand the risks posed by disease outbreaks and build trust in public health messaging.