Reports of a new respiratory virus in China, known as HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus), have sparked anxiety and humor on social media, evoking memories of the early days of COVID-19 nearly five years ago. However, Moroccan health experts have assured the public that there is no cause for alarm in the country.
Dr. Moulay Said Afif, a member of Morocco’s scientific committee for COVID-19 vaccination, emphasized that there is no indication of an HMPV threat in Morocco. “The Directorate of Epidemiology and the vigilance committee have not issued any warnings or announcements about this virus,” he said, urging calm.
Dr. Afif stressed to Hespress AR the importance of addressing severe cases of seasonal flu, particularly among vulnerable groups, including the elderly, young children, and individuals with chronic illnesses. He recommended flu vaccinations for those over 65 and others at high risk, noting that vaccinated individuals tend to experience milder symptoms.
Dr. Taib Hamdi, a physician and health policy researcher, dismissed claims circulating on social media that China has declared a health emergency due to HMPV. “These rumors are baseless. China has not declared a state of emergency, and the current health situation there is not unusual compared to previous years,” he said.
Hamdi explained that the winter season typically sees a rise in respiratory illnesses, including the flu and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), which affects infants and the elderly. “HMPV is similar to RSV but has limited impact on healthy adults and young people,” he added.
Hamdi noted that most people are exposed to HMPV in childhood, which provides long-lasting immunity. However, the virus can pose risks to seniors with weakened immune systems or individuals suffering from malnutrition or chronic conditions.
He concluded by stating that the situation in China and globally aligns with normal winter patterns, emphasizing that the emergence of viruses like HMPV is not unusual during this season.
Moroccan health officials urge the public to focus on protecting vulnerable populations from seasonal flu through vaccination and to avoid unnecessary panic over unverified reports about new viruses.
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