WHO evaluates risks of metapneumovirus from China.

The World Health Organization reported that the metapneumovirus spreading in China is common and does not pose a serious threat. The virus is actively spreading during the winter season, but seasonal flu is the most prevalent infection. The incidence of respiratory infections in China remains normal for the winter period, and hospitals do not have many patients compared to last year. Metapneumovirus has been known since 2001 and circulates in winter and spring, leading to cold-like symptoms. This virus is dangerous for people with weakened immunity.

The risk from the H5N1 avian virus remains low as it is transmitted to humans through contact with domestic birds or livestock. In the USA, cases of bird flu infections among farm workers have already been recorded, but there is no threat to the general public.