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Leading Greek scientists are reassuring the public about the recent rise in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases reported in northern China, attributing it to a seasonal trend rather than a new health crisis.
Gkikas Magiorkinis, associate professor of epidemiology at the University of Athens, dismissed fears as unfounded. Speaking to public broadcaster ERT, Magiorkinis emphasized that HMPV has been known since 2001 and likely circulated among humans for decades, with studies detecting antibodies as far back as 1958. He noted, “This is not a new virus but one many of us contracted in childhood.”
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention classify HMPV as a respiratory virus with typically mild symptoms. However, high-risk groups may face complications.
Greek health experts urge vigilance in hygiene practices but stress that online speculation about overloaded Chinese hospitals lacks evidence.