HMPV cases surge as WHO warns infected to lockdown at home and issues 'wear face mask' guidance

The WHO said: “WHO recommends that individuals in areas where it is winter take normal precautions to prevent the spread and reduce risks posed by respiratory pathogens, especially to the most vulnerable.

“People with mild symptoms should stay home to avoid infecting other people and rest.

“People at high risk or with complicated or severe symptoms should seek medical care as soon as possible.

“Individuals should also consider wearing a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or bent elbow, practice regular handwashing, and get recommended vaccines as per physician and local public health authorities’ advice.”

However, the UN specialised agency was keen to point out that acute respiratory infections increase at this time of year.

The WHO remains in contact with Chinese health officials and claimed it has not yet received reports of “unusual outbreak patterns”.

• Obese patients 'sent to back of NHS queue' as only those 'fit to proceed' will undergo surgery
• HPMV cases DOUBLE in Britain with experts urging China to disclose vital information on outbreak
• Three physical practices that can 'significantly boost your chances of a longer, healthier life'

The update added: “Chinese authorities report that the health care system is not overwhelmed and there have been no emergency declarations or responses triggered.”

Despite Beijing rejecting suggestions of any problems, concerns remain about what is happening in China following the Covid pandemic.

The situation has drawn parallels with the initial outbreak in Wuhan that marked the beginning of the global Covid-19 crisis in 2020.

Videos circulating on social media show medical units overwhelmed with patients, highlighting the strain on China's healthcare system.

Parents with sick children have also been seen waiting in lengthy queues at paediatric care facilities late into the night.

The scenes of overcrowded hospitals have emerged across social media platforms, though official reports have not declared the situation critical.

In response to the outbreak, China's National Disease Control and Prevention Administration has launched a pilot monitoring system to track pneumonia cases of unknown origin.

China's National Disease Control and Prevention Administration reported a significant increase in respiratory infections between December 16 and 22.

Meanwhile, the WHO has called on China to share data regarding the origins of the 2020 Covid outbreak, which resulted in an estimated seven million deaths globally.

While many scientists believe the virus transferred naturally from animals to humans, questions persist about a potential laboratory leak in Wuhan.

Beijing has firmly denied the laboratory leak theory, maintaining its position against such claims.