HMPV virus – latest: US monitoring China cases as Bali steps up checks on flights from the country
Authorities in Bali have asked nationals from China and Malaysia to fill out a health pass three days before their arrivals in the island nation
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The US is monitoring cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections after a reported surge in cases across China.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said it was currently looking at reports of increasing cases in the US but played down any concern.
It comes as Indonesia has started monitoring flights from China and Malaysia amid concern over rising HMPV infections across the region.
Those travelling to Bali will have to fill out a form three days before their arrival to the island providing a record of passengers’ health, according to local health authorities.
Singapore said on Wednesday it had witnessed a spike in HMPV infections at the end of 2024 but added that it was consistent with expectations due to increased social gatherings and holiday travel.
Dr Sanjaya Senanayake, infectious disease expert associate professor of medicine at The Australian National University, said it was “vital” for China to share information in a “timely manner”.
The virus, which causes flu or cold-like symptoms, has seen cases spiking across northern Chinese provinces this winter, particularly among children.
How worried should you be about HMPV outbreak in China?
Experts on whether we should be worried by HMPV outbreak
Scientists say virus is neither new nor poses unusual threat to global health
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments