The public is concerned about the overcrowding in Chinese hospitals as a result of an increase in respiratory diseases connected to the human metapneumovirus (HMPV).
Following health officials' warning of an increase in flu-like symptoms and complaints of overcrowded hospitals and excessive wait times, the outbreak
Chinese hospitals are suffering from an enigmatic virus outbreak that is evoking memories of the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Videos that have gone viral on social media depict crowded hospitals, mask-wearing patients, and long lines of parents waiting in pediatric wards with their ailing children.

Reports indicate that the outbreak may be related to human metapneumovirus (HMPV), despite the absence of an official notification. Although this little-known virus usually only causes mild, cold-like symptoms, it has raised worries.

The outbreak comes shortly after the Chinese Centre for Disease Control warned of rising cases of flu-like illnesses. In late December, a report noted that 7.2% of outpatient visits in northern provinces were related to such illnesses.

Meanwhile, the United Kingdom is also experiencing a significant flu outbreak, which hospitalized over 5,000 patients by the end of December.

The National Health Service (NHS) reported an average of 4,469 daily flu-related hospitalizations in the week leading up to December 29, a 3.5-fold increase compared to the same period in 2023.

On Christmas Day, 4,102 flu patients were hospitalized, rising to 5,074 by December 29—a sharp jump from the 1,190 hospitalizations recorded on November 29.

Adding to the pressure, hospitals are managing high numbers of norovirus and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) cases. Critical care units saw an average of 211 flu patients daily, with RSV and norovirus cases significantly higher than last year.

In response, hospitals discharged a record 15,094 patients on Christmas Eve, a 40% increase compared to the previous week.

Julian Redhead, the National Clinical Director for urgent and emergency care, noted that the NHS continues to face immense pressure from flu, COVID-19, RSV, and other illnesses.