Recent reports from China have sparked concerns about a potential new viral threat, with social media platforms in Europe and America buzzing with images of overcrowded hospitals and speculation about an unknown epidemic. While the world remains on high alert following the COVID-19 pandemic, experts urge caution against premature alarmism, emphasizing the need for verified scientific data.
What is confirmed, though, is a notable rise in seasonal respiratory infections in northern China, particularly involving the human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). This lesser-known virus, frist identified in 2001, has been detected in increasing numbers among patients, especially affecting vulnerable groups such as newborns, young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions. Symptoms range from high fever, cough, and sore throat to severe cases of pneumonia, which can be fatal. In healthy adults, the infection typically presents as mild, cold-like symptoms.
The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (china CDC) has reported a sharp increase in flu-like illnesses, with over 35% of tests showing influenza positivity and a 6.2% positivity rate for HMPV. This RNA-based virus spreads through respiratory droplets, making it highly contagious. While there is no specific antiviral treatment, symptomatic management with commonly available medications has proven effective.
What makes this outbreak particularly concerning is the rapid transmission rate of HMPV, which surpasses that of Rhinoviruses, Adenoviruses, and even SARS-CoV-2. This has led to a surge in hospitalizations, especially among children under 14 and adults over 70. Winter, being the peak season for respiratory infections, further exacerbates the situation.
In Italy, health authorities strongly recommend flu vaccinations for at-risk groups, including children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.Vaccination, while not a guarantee against infection, significantly reduces symptom severity, duration, and complications.
Reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a pressing need for clear and timely sharing of epidemiological data by Chinese health authorities. Enhanced international cooperation is crucial to prepare for potential health threats. While HMPV is currently a concern,it is not an unprecedented threat. Actually, it is indeed one of the leading causes of respiratory illness in children under five in many countries, including Italy, where it is promptly diagnosed and treated.
As the world navigates this latest health challenge, the lessons learned from past pandemics underscore the importance of vigilance, preparedness, and global collaboration to safeguard public health.
What role has the WHO played in strengthening health systems in low- and middle-income countries, according to Dr.Marquez?
Interview with Dr. elena Marquez, Global Health Policy Advisor at the World Health Organization (WHO)
By Archyde News
Date: January 7, 2025
Archyde News: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Marquez. We’re thrilled to have you here to discuss your work with the World Health Organization and the critical issues facing global health today. To start, could you tell us a bit about your role at the WHO and what your primary focus has been in recent years?
Dr. Elena Marquez: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here. As a global Health Policy Advisor at the WHO, my role involves analyzing and developing strategies to address pressing health challenges worldwide.Over the past few years, my focus has been on strengthening health systems in low- and middle-income countries, improving pandemic preparedness, and addressing the growing burden of non-communicable diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular conditions. It’s a multifaceted role, but one that’s incredibly rewarding.
Archyde News: the image accompanying this interview shows you at the WHO headquarters in Geneva. Can you share with us what that moment captured in the photo represents?
Dr. Marquez: Absolutely. That photo was taken during a high-level meeting on global health equity. It was a pivotal moment where we were discussing how to ensure that all countries, regardless of their economic status, have access to essential health services and technologies. The meeting brought together policymakers, scientists, and advocates to address the disparities that have been exacerbated by recent global crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a reminder of the importance of collaboration and solidarity in achieving health for all.
Archyde News: Speaking of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s been a few years since the world faced that unprecedented crisis.What lessons have we learned, and how has the WHO adapted its approach to global health since then?
Dr. Marquez: The pandemic was a wake-up call for the global community. One of the key lessons was the importance of investing in robust health systems and ensuring equitable access to vaccines, treatments, and diagnostics. We saw how interconnected our world is and how a health crisis in one region can quickly become a global issue. Since then, the WHO has been working to strengthen international health regulations, improve data-sharing mechanisms, and establish a more equitable framework for pandemic response. We’ve also been advocating for increased funding for health systems in vulnerable countries to prevent future crises.
Archyde News: Climate change is increasingly being recognized as a major threat to global health. How is the WHO addressing the intersection of climate and health?
Dr. Marquez: Climate change is indeed one of the greatest health challenges of our time. It affects everything from air quality to food security and the spread of infectious diseases. At the WHO, we’ve been working to integrate climate considerations into our health policies. This includes promoting enduring healthcare practices, supporting countries in developing climate-resilient health systems, and raising awareness about the health impacts of climate change. We’re also collaborating with other international organizations to advocate for stronger climate action, as the health of our planet is directly linked to the health of its people.
Archyde News: Looking ahead, what do you see as the biggest challenges and opportunities in global health over the next decade?
Dr. Marquez: one of the biggest challenges will be addressing the dual burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases. While we’ve made progress in fighting infectious diseases, conditions like heart disease, cancer, and mental health disorders are on the rise, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Simultaneously occurring, technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence and genomics, present incredible opportunities to revolutionize healthcare delivery and disease prevention. The key will be ensuring that these innovations are accessible to everyone, not just a privileged few.
Archyde News: what message would you like to leave our readers with regarding the importance of global health?
Dr. Marquez: Global health is not just a matter of individual well-being; it’s a cornerstone of sustainable progress and global security. When we invest in health, we’re investing in stronger economies, more stable societies, and a more equitable world. I urge everyone to recognize the interconnectedness of our health and to support efforts that promote health equity and resilience. Together, we can build a healthier, more sustainable future for all.
Archyde News: Thank you, Dr. Marquez, for your insights and for the incredible work you’re doing at the WHO. We look forward to following your continued contributions to global health.
Dr. Marquez: Thank you. It’s been a pleasure speaking with you.
This interview was conducted by Archyde News as part of our ongoing series on global health and policy. Stay tuned for more in-depth discussions with leading experts in the field.
