China Calls Flu 'Outbreak' A 'Winter Occurrence', Says Safe To Travel To Beijing

Several videos circulating on social media show hospitals swamped with patients of human metapneumovirus (HMPV). Reports of a massive flu outbreak in China have been circulating in other countries.

Reports of a massive flu outbreak in China have been circulating in other countries.

Source : Freepik

Amid reports of a massive flu outbreak in the country, China has said that the cases of respiratory diseases that occur during the winter were less severe this year than last year. The Chinese Foreign Ministry declared it safe for foreigners to travel to Beijing.

"Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season in the northern hemisphere. The diseases appear to be less severe and spread with a smaller scale compared to the previous year," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told the media in response to a question on the spread of influenza A and other respiratory diseases in China.

Several videos circulating on social media show hospitals swamped with patients of human metapneumovirus (HMPV). Reports of a massive flu outbreak in China have been circulating in other countries, particularly in India and Indonesia. However, health officials maintain the outbreak is an annual occurrence during the winter. China is currently experiencing severe cold weather for the past few months.

"I can assure you the Chinese government cares about the health of Chinese citizens and foreigners in China. It is safe to travel in China," she said.

The Foreign Ministry also referred to guidelines issued by the National Disease Control and Prevention Administration of China regarding the prevention and control of respiratory diseases in the winter.

India's Response To Flu Outbreak Reports

On Friday, Dr Atul Goyal, Director-General of Health Services (DGHS), provided information about the outbreak of the Metapneumovirus in China, saying that while it is serious, there is no need for panic.

"We do not believe that this is a cause for major concern, as this is a normal respiratory virus that causes cold-like symptoms or, in some cases, flu-like symptoms, especially in older individuals and children under one-year-old," Dr Goyal explained.

"However, it is not a serious illness that requires significant worry. Respiratory virus infections increase during the colder months, and our hospitals and institutions are well-prepared to handle it, with beds and oxygen availability. There are no specific antiviral drugs required as there is no specific medication for this virus," he added.