Central Asian States Grapple with HMPV Cases

Unverified reports circulating on social media are fueling fear among parents in Central Asian countries about the rapid spread of the HMPV virus from China. The panic became so widespread in Uzbekistan that the country's Health Ministry had to release a statement debunking rumors that its main pediatric hospital was overwhelmed with sick children, The Caspian Post reports citing Eurasianet.

According to the ministry, the facility in question underwent routine maintenance work, which was completed on January 6. The full resumption of operations “naturally led to an increase in the flow of patients," the ministry said, adding that the pediatric hospital did not treat children with infectious diseases in any event.

Hospitals in China have been flooded with suspected HMPV cases in recent weeks. The virus, which causes flu-like symptoms, has existed for decades and does not pose anywhere near as mortal a threat to sufferers as did Covid-19 during that virus’ initial outbreak. But HMPV can pose considerable danger to very young children and those with weakened immune systems.

While rumors now circulating in Central Asia may be overblown, there appears to be some basis for public concern about the spread of the HMPV. Health officials in both Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan have issued health advisories cautioning families with small children to avoid crowded public spaces.

Many cases have already been reported in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. Two local cases of HMPV have also garnered headlines in Kyrgyzstan. Tajikistan is claiming no cases exist, echoing government claims a few years ago that the country was “Covid-free.” No information about possible infections in Turkmenistan is publicly available.