The Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), currently spreading in China is just a ‘winter occurrence,’ is less severe, and is spreading on a smaller scale, said the country’s foreign ministry spokesperson, reported news agency IANS.

The statement comes as photos and videos emerged on social media showing hospitals in China swamped with people amid rising cases of HMPV – causing respiratory illness --, and raising serious concerns of another pandemic akin to COVID-19.