A viral outbreak in China is straining healthcare facilities, leading to a resurgence in face mask usage among the public. Videos that have emerged show crowded hospitals where parents wait with unwell children and patients are seen wearing masks.
Disturbing reports suggest that crematoriums and funeral homes are struggling to cope with the increased demand, raising concerns reminiscent of the early COVID-19 pandemic period. Local news sources indicate the outbreak may be linked to human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a virus known for causing mild respiratory symptoms, although health authorities have not confirmed this association.
This recent surge mirrors the winter of 2022/23, when cases of mycoplasma pneumonia—informally termed “white lung”—spiked in children with weakened immune systems due to extended lockdowns and school closures during the pandemic. The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that a significant portion of recent cases is driven by seasonal influenza. Official data shows that approximately 30% of recent tests are positive for influenza, with one in seven severely ill patients testing positive for the virus.
The CDC’s latest report, covering the week prior to December 29, indicates a notable increase in flu-like illnesses nationwide. Specifically, 7.2% of outpatient visits in northern provinces were flu-related, marking a 12% rise from the previous week and the highest rate since 2021. Southern regions reported 5.7% for flu symptoms, a 21% increase although still below levels seen in 2022 and 2023.
As the New Year approached, videos depicting overcrowded hospitals, particularly in Hunan province, began circulating. A local farmer reported a worrying increase in illnesses in his community, including multiple fatalities.
The farmer recounted, “Many people have caught colds, and several have passed away this week, spanning ages from their 40s to 80s.” Additionally, a funeral director mentioned long wait times at her crematorium, stating, “It looks like a trade fair during Chinese New Year due to the crowds.”
In a personal account, a local video blogger shared his experience of falling ill after returning to his province, where he and his wife experienced fever and body aches. He urged everyone to wear masks in crowded places, emphasizing the discomfort reminiscent of previous viral infections.
Last year, a surge in pneumonia cases among children resulted in similar scenes in Beijing, prompting authorities to attribute these outbreaks to a resurgence of illnesses following the end of pandemic-related restrictions. As the situation evolves, the health community is closely monitoring these developments to provide timely updates.