The Chinese foreign ministry said on Friday that it had maintained close communication with the World Health Organization (WHO) on respiratory diseases, when asked about the rising cases of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China.

The WHO has downplayed concerns over a rise in HMPV cases, saying outbreaks are normal during winter in the Northern Hemisphere.

China's central bank said on Friday it has suspended treasury bond purchases, triggering a jump in yields and spurring speculation that the move was aimed at defending a falling currency.

Cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) and other seasonal viruses are on the rise across the northern hemisphere in early 2025, according to the World Health Organization. While news reports and social media videos have caused concern about a potential HMPV outbreak in China,

As China continues to monitor an increase in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), here's what you need to know about the illness.

The World Health Organization has released a statement on the reported outbreak of human metapneumovirus in China and elsewhere.

A Congolese health official administers a mpox vaccination to a Congolese Red Cross worker, a key step in efforts to contain an outbreak that has spread from its epicentre, at a hospital in Goma, North Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of Congo October 5, 2024. PHOTO/REUTERS

BEIJING: The Chinese foreign ministry said on Friday (Jan 10) that it had maintained close communication with the World Health Organization (WHO) on respiratory diseases when asked about the rising cases of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China.

Chinese government prioritizes health of citizens and foreigners, monitoring HMPV cases closely with WHO, according to foreign ministry.

Even though lung and related cancer deaths decreased in the world's 10 most populous countries from 1990 to 2019, these positive statistics do not address trends in mortality linked to tobacco use, air pollution and asbestos exposure.

We simply cannot allow our resources to empower our rivals while we shoulder the burdens. A weaker, sicker and less prosperous country, a climate crisis spiralling out of control, and a more unstable world in exchange for wealthier Big Oil and Gas CEOs? That is a trade no leader should make.