China is currently struggling with a surge in infections of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus causing widespread concern globally. Foreign media reports indicate that the surge has led to overcrowded hospitals, emergency measures, and growing public anxiety in China and also in the world about a potential outbreak. 

While Chinese authorities have downplayed the situation calling it a typical seasonal occurrence and global experts have assured that HMPV is not as alarming as Covid-19, the situation is not something that can be ignored.

The emergence of HMPV in China is particularly concerning because of its impact on the respiratory system, which was common in the case of the Covid-19 pandemic as well, which also started in China.  In light of the lessons learned during the Covid-19 pandemic, countries cannot afford to be complacent, even if the virus does not currently pose a global threat. Caution, not panic should be approached to deal with such issues. Given the impact Covid-19 had on Sri Lanka, its people, systems and economy, it goes without saying that the island nation can ill-afford a new strain of any repertory illness to take root. As such, Sri Lanka must act swiftly and decisively to reduce the risk and mitigate the impact of what could be the next big public health crisis.

The Covid-19 pandemic taught the world the importance of vigilance, early action, and public health preparedness. For Sri Lanka, the pandemic highlighted the need for robust health infrastructure and proactive measures to curb the spread of infectious diseases. While Sri Lanka managed to navigate the Covid-19 crisis with a mix of strict lockdowns, mass vaccination drives, and public health campaigns, the pandemic also exposed vulnerabilities in the country’s healthcare system. These lessons should now guide the country’s response to the emerging HMPV situation. Even though this virus is not new, its potential to overwhelm healthcare systems, especially during the winter season, cannot be ignored. HMPV, like other respiratory viruses, spreads through close contact, coughing, sneezing, and contaminated surfaces. Symptoms can range from mild cold-like issues to severe respiratory distress, particularly in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

In Sri Lanka, public health authorities and citizens must treat this as an opportunity to reinforce preventive measures. Simple, yet effective precautions can go a long way in curbing the spread of respiratory infections, according to health experts. Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is a simple but powerful tool to prevent infections. Covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, and encouraging others to do the same, reduces the spread of respiratory droplets. Wearing masks in crowded places or when symptoms are present protects not just the individual but the community at large. In addition, ensuring clean hands before touching the eyes, nose, or mouth minimises the risk of transferring viruses from surfaces. Encouraging individuals to seek medical help for persistent or severe symptoms ensures timely treatment and reduces the burden on hospitals.

These measures, familiar from the Covid-19 era, ought to be reintroduced and awareness building carried out. Once the public understands the benefits, not just in the context of HMPV but as a general safeguard against all infectious diseases, the practice will become commonplace. Sri Lanka’s Government and healthcare system have a critical role to play in preparing for potential outbreaks. Hospitals should be equipped to handle surges in respiratory cases, with adequate supplies of oxygen, ventilators, and antiviral medications, while laboratories must also be prepared for increased testing to quickly identify and isolate cases.

In addition, the authorities should work on enhancing surveillance systems to monitor trends in respiratory infections. Collaborating with international health organisations and learning from China’s response, especially in this case, can provide valuable insights. Proactive measures, such as community-based awareness programmes and vaccination drives for other respiratory diseases like influenza can also help reduce the overall burden on the healthcare system.