China takes drastic measures to prevent spread of new virus
China is currently experiencing a surge in infections from a respiratory virus, leading to overcrowded hospitals as local authorities fear the onset of a new epidemic.
The virus, identified as the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), has seen cases spike in northern provinces this winter, particularly among children.
This alert comes five years after the country warned the world of a potential global pandemic caused by the spread of the coronavirus from the city of Wuhan.
On social media, numerous images and videos of people wearing masks have been shared, with several local media outlets noting that HMPV evokes scenes reminiscent of the coronavirus outbreak.
Health authorities are implementing emergency measures to monitor and control the spread, though the central government has downplayed the situation, describing it as a typical seasonal occurrence.
China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Friday: "Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season. The diseases appear to be less severe and spread with a smaller scale compared to the previous year."
(QG - The Independent / Picture: © Pixabay)