China has downplayed concerns about rising Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases, attributing them to seasonal factors. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning assured safety for tourists, stating that respiratory infections peak in winter. Indian health agencies also urged citizens not to panic, highlighting HMPV as a common virus causing mild cold and flu-like symptoms, primarily in the elderly and infants. Dr. Raman Gangakhedkar emphasized that the virus is not severe unless genetic mutations are reported. Preventive measures like hand hygiene and mask usage are advised. Hospitals are prepared to handle cases, and experts stressed the virus has low mortality rates.

The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has confirmed that India has reported no cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a virus linked to rising respiratory illnesses in China. Dr. Atul Goyal, NCDC Director, stated that HMPV causes cold-like symptoms, mainly in children and the elderly, and advised following basic precautions like avoiding close contact during illness. He reassured that taking regular cold or fever medication suffices. India has not seen a significant rise in respiratory outbreaks this winter, and hospitals are prepared. Meanwhile, China is addressing respiratory diseases and setting protocols for unknown pathogens.

The spread of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in northern China is raising alarm across Asia, with rising respiratory illnesses and strained healthcare systems. HMPV primarily affects children and can lead to severe conditions like pneumonia and bronchitis. Despite being known for two decades, no vaccine exists for the virus. Health authorities in neighboring countries, including Hong Kong and Japan, are on high alert. Japan is facing a flu outbreak alongside HMPV concerns, reporting over 700,000 cases. Experts urge strict monitoring and preventive measures like wearing masks and handwashing to limit transmission.

China is reportedly facing an outbreak of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus similar to Covid-19, affecting mainly children and the elderly. Social media claims suggest overwhelmed hospitals and crematoriums, though no official confirmation has been provided. HMPV symptoms include coughing, fever, and respiratory distress, potentially leading to pneumonia in severe cases. The virus, first identified in 2001, has no specific treatment or vaccine. Prevention measures, such as frequent handwashing and mask usage, are advised. While health authorities in China have yet to declare a state of emergency, rising cases have sparked concern over a potential epidemic.

AIIMS researchers in New Delhi have developed chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy targeting multiple myeloma, a severe blood cancer. This breakthrough involves genetically modifying a patient’s T cells to identify and destroy cancer cells effectively. Initial animal trials have shown promising results. Prof Mayank Singh of BRAIRCH, AIIMS, noted that this therapy could offer an affordable alternative to expensive FDA-approved treatments unavailable to many Indian patients. Clinical validation is pending, but researchers aim to make the treatment accessible. With India facing rising cancer cases, this innovation could significantly reduce the disease burden.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo’s mysterious "Disease X," which claimed 143 lives since October, has been identified as a severe form of malaria. The illness, primarily affecting women and children, led to 592 reported cases, with a fatality rate of 6.2%. Health officials highlighted the impact of malnutrition in worsening respiratory symptoms. WHO data reveal Congo accounts for 11% of global malaria cases and deaths. While 2.2 billion malaria cases and 12.7 million deaths have been averted globally since 2000, the disease remains a severe threat, particularly in Africa, with 597,000 deaths recorded worldwide in 2023.

Russia has developed an mRNA cancer vaccine, launching in early 2025. The vaccine is personalised, using a patient’s tumour to train the immune system to fight cancer. It treats cancer but does not prevent it. The Russian government will provide it free of charge, though it costs 300,000 rubles per dose. Details about its effectiveness and the types of cancer it treats are still unclear. Cancer cases are rising in Russia, with over 635,000 recorded in 2022. The vaccine aims to improve survival rates and is part of ongoing global efforts to develop personalised cancer treatments.

Australia is probing a major biosecurity breach after 323 virus samples, including Hendra, Lyssavirus, and Hantavirus, went missing from Queensland's public health lab. The samples disappeared in August 2023, prompting Queensland Health to investigate. While experts raised concerns about public safety, officials assured no immediate risk, citing the rapid degradation of these viruses outside low-temperature environments. Health Minister Timothy Nicholls vowed to enhance security and examine lab policies. Experts warned of the potential dangers, with some viruses carrying fatality rates as high as 15%. Authorities aim to prevent future lapses through robust measures and thorough investigations.

The NHS has reported a 70% rise in flu-related hospitalizations in England, with 1,861 patients admitted daily last week, up from 1,099 the week before. Seasonal illnesses like norovirus and RSV are also increasing, raising fears of a “quad-demic.” NHS England chief Sir Stephen Powis urged eligible groups, including over-65s and pregnant women, to get vaccinated against flu, COVID, and RSV. Vaccines are available in pharmacies, markets, and supermarkets. Health Secretary Wes Streeting echoed the call, emphasizing the importance of protection before the festive season. November marked the busiest-ever month for A&Es in England, with 2.31M attendances.

The NHS faces a severe "quad-demic" this winter as hospital admissions for flu, Covid, norovirus, and RSV climb sharply. Weekly flu-related hospitalizations in England reached an average of 1,099, up from 243 last year. RSV and norovirus cases also surged, with over 750 norovirus-related bed occupancies reported. NHS Medical Director Prof Stephen Powis urged the public to get flu, Covid, and RSV vaccinations, warning of unprecedented pressure on services. Ambulance delays are increasing, with 36% of patients waiting over 30 minutes for A&E handovers. Health Secretary Wes Streeting pledged reforms through a 10-year health plan to tackle recurring crises.