By Michael Gwarisa
Following a surge in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in northern China, one of Zimbabwe’s leading public health experts has warned against complacency and urged the government to implement preventive measures promptly.
Concerns are mounting as many draw parallels between the current HMPV outbreak and the early, grim days of COVID-19. Social media footage has shown overwhelmed medical facilities in China, with parents holding sick children in long queues outside pediatric care units, even late into the night.
Speaking to HealthTimes, Community Working Group on Health (CWGH) Executive Director Mr. Itai Rusike emphasized the need to apply lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic to protect public health.
The HMPV outbreak in China is very concerning. We urge the government to act swiftly, using experiences from the COVID-19 pandemic to safeguard citizens. Ensuring the availability of medicines, diagnostics, vaccines, and biologicals is critical,” said Mr. Rusike.
He underscored the importance of collective responsibility in health, emphasizing collaboration across all sectors of society. CWGH also encouraged the public to adopt preventive measures, including frequent handwashing, treating water at the point of use, thoroughly cooking food, avoiding large crowds, maintaining social distancing, and adhering to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.
“The government must address the information gap on the HMPV outbreak. It’s vital to provide the public with credible and accurate updates to avoid misinformation and disinformation. During COVID-19, many relied on unreliable sources, including social media and peers. This highlights the need for health education, information dissemination, and awareness campaigns,” added Mr. Rusike.
He called for transparent and timely communication to combat misinformation. “By bridging the information gap, the government can prevent the chaos caused by disinformation during COVID-19. Accurate updates are essential to reassure and guide the public.”
HMPV typically causes mild cold-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, runny nose, and wheezing. However, in severe cases, it can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly in children. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets and close contact, making it highly contagious in crowded environments.
In its November bulletin, the World Health Organization noted a significant rise in respiratory infections since October, underscoring the need for vigilance.
Cases have been surging in northern China, particularly among children, according to local authorities. The country’s centre for disease control (CDC) has warned people to take precautions with health and hygiene, but has also pushed back against online claims of overwhelmed hospitals and fears of another Covid-like pandemic.
