China reported a notable increase in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases late in 2024, a respiratory infection initially discovered in 2001. This increase has attracted attention globally, especially in nearby areas like South Asia, where seasonal respiratory diseases and dense populations greatly expose people to vulnerability. The necessity of tackling this public health issue is shown by the increasing number of HMPV cases in China, their possible cross-border dissemination, and the historical frequency of this virus in South Asia and Bangladesh.
Not a novel virus, HMPV has been linked to respiratory problems, primarily affecting children, the elderly, and vulnerable people. Still, the current surge in China is concerning. HMPV accounted for 6.2% of positive respiratory disease tests in China and 5.4% of hospitalizations resulting from respiratory infections during December 16–22, 2024. As reported by the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CCDC), these numbers exceeded rates of COVID-19, rhinovirus, and adenovirus during the same time. Given that children under 14 were disproportionately impacted, this spike severely taxed healthcare systems—primarily pediatric wards. The load on healthcare facilities emphasizes the challenges of controlling such increases in respiratory diseases, even if Chinese health authorities have said the surge is within typical seasonal trends rather than an extraordinary pandemic.
Following the outbreak in China, neighboring South Asian nations—including India have begun tracking HMPV cases. In early January 2025, Bengaluru in India reported the first officially recorded HMPV cases. Two newborns, ages three months and eight months, had HMPV-induced respiratory problems. Seven confirmed instances had been documented nationally by January 7, 2025. Although they reassure the public that the issue is under control, Indian health experts have advised monitoring (Indian Ministry of Health, 2025). In Pakistan, the National Institute of Health (NIH) has admitted that HMPV has been present since 2001 and has had occasional instances recorded. Given the current increase in China, Pakistani officials called the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) to evaluate possible hazards and guarantee readiness (NIH, 2025).
Particularly susceptible to the transmission of HMPV is Bangladesh, a densely populated nation with a high load of respiratory diseases. Bangladesh has thoroughly documented the virus for over ten years, particularly concerning children. Research done in Dhaka found that HMPV mainly causes respiratory illnesses in young populations. According to the study, the most often occurring single virus identified in febrile children is HMPV, which is important in producing respiratory diseases. Moreover, genetic studies have shown that many HMPV genotypes circulate in Bangladesh, genotype A being particularly dominant during specific periods. This genetic variety suggests that HMPV is already somewhat entrenched in the area (Rahman et al., 2019).
Bangladesh is among the South Asian countries vulnerable to the possible HMPV outbreak. The great human density of the area, especially in cities, helps respiratory infections to spread quickly. Furthermore, many South Asian nations have overburdened healthcare systems, which makes it challenging to control unexpected respiratory illness outbreaks. Seasonal patterns also matter, as HMPV infections usually peak in the winter, while other respiratory diseases such as influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are epidemic. This seasonal overlap might aggravate the load on healthcare institutions and raise morbidity rates among sensitive groups.
The increasing trend of HMPV cases in China and their effects on South Asia demand a proactive and coordinated reaction. Detecting and reacting fast to HMPV requires strengthening surveillance systems. Improved surveillance will let public health authorities follow the virus’s progress and carry out focused treatments. Public awareness efforts are also crucial to inform populations about HMPV, its symptoms, and preventative actions. Transmission rates can be significantly lowered by essential habits, including hand cleanliness, respiratory protocol, and avoiding close contact with sick people.
Infection control strategies have to be given top priority in healthcare institutions in order to safeguard patients and staff members. In clinical environments, standard procedures, including appropriate sanitation measures and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), can assist in reducing the dissemination of HMPV. Furthermore, studies and cooperation are required to grasp the epidemiology of HMPV better and assist in the creation of vaccinations and antiviral therapies. Besides helping fight HMPV, funding scientific research will improve readiness for the next respiratory virus pandemic.
Bangladesh should use its current healthcare system and knowledge of managing respiratory diseases to counter the HMPV risk. The nation’s response to HMPV can be based on its notable improvement in healthcare access and outcomes throughout recent years. Public health officials should exchange data, best practices, and resources with neighboring nations and international organizations. Controlling the spread of HMPV and reducing its effect on public health will depend critically on regional collaboration.
Even if the current increase in HMPV cases in China causes worries, this scenario is not unusual. For years, HMPV has been widespread throughout South Asia, including Bangladesh, and has greatly added to the load of respiratory diseases. The present circumstances emphasize the need for public knowledge, alertness, and the following of preventative policies. Strengthening surveillance, improving healthcare preparation, and funding research would help South Asia to properly handle the problems presented by HMPV and other respiratory viruses. The knowledge gained from controlling HMPV will also support more general initiatives to enhance regional resilience and public health results.
