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hmpv virus in china: Is it safe to travel to China amid HMPV outbreak scare and viral videos? Check the latest details

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Five years after the Covid-19 pandemic scare, China is facing another similar situation and this time its Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)– a respiratory illness with flu-like symptoms. As per reports, China is currently dealing with a fresh outbreak of viruses with the emergence of various respiratory infectious diseases in winter, sparking global concerns.

If social media videos are to be believed, the virus is posing major health challenges, with a sharp increase in respiratory illnesses, particularly HMPV. The number of infected people are reportedly rising and it clearly looks like a concerning situation.

There’s one question that is constantly on everyone’s mind- Is it safe to travel to China right now?
ALSO READ: HMPV virus in China FAQs: Symptoms, treatment, diagnosis and everything else you should know

HMPV cases rise in China

Photos and videos of people wearing masks in hospitals in China emerged on social media platforms and local reports said the outbreak of HMPV is similar to the Covid outbreak five years ago. Not only this, along with HMPV, there are claims of other viruses, including influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and even Covid-19, circulating simultaneously.


Online video posts are concerning. Some even suggest that the current viral outbreak is more complex than just one strain of illness. The spread of multiple respiratory infections, including HMPV, has raised alarms, as these viruses share similar symptoms, complicating diagnosis and treatment.ALSO READ: Quad-demic threat in US: Mask mandate returns as winter viruses surge. What should you do to prevent it?

What China has said amid HMPV outbreak?

China downplayed concerns over a reported outbreak of flu, saying it is safe for foreigners to travel to the country. Beijing to address such concerns. China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Friday that “Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season”.

Despite circulating social media videos showing overcrowded hospitals, Chinese authorities maintained that the situation does not represent a significant health crisis. The Chinese foreign ministry said the outbreak is less severe than last year.

ALSO READ: Is China facing another pandemic? Five years after Covid, HMPV virus threat triggers panic. What you need to know?

“Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season in the northern hemisphere,” said Mao Ning, spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, addressing questions about the spread of influenza A and other respiratory diseases.

She added, “The diseases appear to be less severe and spread on a smaller scale compared to the previous year. I can assure you the Chinese government cares about the health of Chinese citizens and foreigners in China. It is safe to travel in China.”

Mao also pointed to guidelines issued by the National Disease Control and Prevention Administration of China for managing respiratory diseases during the winter.

ALSO READ: Rabbit fever, a ‘rare’ disease, sees over 50% rise in US: What are its symptoms and precautionary measures?

What is HMPV and what are its symptoms?

Discovered in 2001, HMPV belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, the same family as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It typically causes upper and lower respiratory infections, presenting symptoms similar to a common cold or flu.

ALSO READ: China facing new Covid-like pandemic? Here’s everything we know about it so far

HMPV causes flu-like symptoms and can lead to severe respiratory issues, especially among children and vulnerable groups. It is a respiratory virus that causes upper and lower respiratory infections. However, there is no vaccine developed to prevent this.

The symptoms of HMPV are similar to those of flu, like cough, fever, nasal congestion and shortness of breath. However, in severe cases, the virus can lead to complications like bronchitis or pneumonia.

Depending on how severe a case is, the incubation period usually lasts 3-7 days and full recovery may take a few more. HMPV is a communicable disease, which means it can spread through the air as well as through touch. Coughing or sneezing can spread it. The virus stays active on the surface of objects at room temperature, so touching such an object can also lead to getting the infection.

How has India responded to the HMPV scare?

The Union Health Ministry said on Friday that it was closely monitoring the alleged outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China. The Ministry maintained that while China had reported a rise in respiratory illness, particularly HMPV, India hadn’t registered any unusual spike in winter respiratory diseases.

ALSO READ: Amid reports of HMPV outbreak in China, doctors warn of 11 diseases that could trigger pandemic 2.0 like Covid

Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services (DGHS) in India, said, “There is news doing the rounds about a Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China. However, we have analyzed the data of the respiratory outbreaks in the country [India], and there is no substantial increase in December 2024 data nor any large-scale cases reported from our institutions. There is nothing to be alarmed about the present situation.”

Goel added that Indian hospitals are prepared with adequate supplies and beds for the usual seasonal surge in respiratory infections. He advised the public to follow standard precautions, such as avoiding close contact if experiencing symptoms like a cough or cold, to prevent transmission.

Reports from China have suggested that Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) could be behind the spike in infections. However, Chinese authorities and the World Health Organization (WHO) have not declared any state of emergency.



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Rishikesh Is Slowly Replacing Goa And Kerala As India’s Most Popular Tourist Spot And It Is Healing People In Unexpected Ways

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Rishikesh Is Slowly Replacing Goa And Kerala As India’s Most Popular Tourist Spot And We Will Tell You Why. (Image: Canva)

For years, destinations like Goa and Kerala have been on top of India’s travel map. Attracting people for their beaches, backwaters and vibrant culture, these two destinations have been a complete delight for tourists. However, in the recent years, a shift has been seen – one which has positioned Rishikesh as the new favourite among travellers, especially those who are seeking more than just a vacation.

Being a small town which is located along the banks of Ganga river in Uttarakhand, Rishikesh has been luring all sorts of travellers – from spiritual seekers to adventure junkies and from digital nomads to slow travellers.

Popularly known as the ‘Yoga Capital Of The World’, Rishikesh is popular amongst Indians and foreigners alike as many priests, sages and real yogis live there. The city is entirely vegetarian and alcohol-free, which may seem unbelievable, considering its tourist footfall. Most rainfall is expected between July and August so its always better to visit the city before or after.

File photo of Rishikesh. (Image: Canva)

Why Is Everyone Travelling To Rishikesh?

One of the primary reasons for Rishikesh’s growing popularity is its spiritual aura. This place, for a long time, has attracted seekers of inner peace and balance. Every year, thousands visit ashrams and wellness retreats for authentic yoga teacher training programs, meditation workshops, and Ayurveda-inspired healing practices.

Unlike the commercial yoga studios found in bigger cities, Rishikesh offers a more grounded and traditional approach. Whether you are staying for a weekend retreat or a month-long course, there is something about this place which will heal you from within. The daily Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat, the chants that echo through the hills create a spiritual atmosphere that is both calming and transformative.

File photo of Rishikesh. (Image: Canva)

This is not it. Rishikesh is also a magnet for adventure tourism. From white-water rafting on the Ganga river to cliff jumping, zip-lining, kayaking, and hiking in the surrounding Himalayas, the town offers a bizarre adrenaline rush like no other.

Additionally, sustainability and conscious tourism are also two major factors that have contributed into an increase in number of tourists. Many eco-stays, homestays, and retreats here are now offering low-impact and environmentally responsible lodging options. There is also a growing emphasis on clean eating and mindful consumption.

File photo of Rishikesh. (Image: Canva)

Last but not the least, accessibility has played an important role too. With the new Char Dham highway project and an improved connectivity from Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport, travelling to Rishikesh has become easier than ever.





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Being “The Best You”: Klook Partners with ICICI For Promoting Exclusive Travel Campaign In India

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Friday, July 11, 2025

New Delhi – Asia’s ultimate travel experiences platform, Klook, announced the unveiling of a new brand campaign, “The Best You”, which invites travelers to reconnect with themselves through out-of-the-ordinary travel experiences. Starring India’s beloved comedian, Bharti Singh, the “The Best You” campaign seeks to reframe the way people perceive travel—focusing on self-discovery, elation, and personalized connections.

The campaign alligns with a new partnership between the Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card and Klook, a first-of-its-kind offering to India’s crème-de-la-crème consumers. The partnership holds the promise of giving card members the best-of-the-best travel benefits, which shall go a long way towards enhancing the travel experiences of India’s discerning travelers.

Bharti Singh’s Journey of Persistence and Rediscovery

The Bharti Singh saga is a touching tale of metamorphosis and endurance. India’s Queen of Comedy, Bharti has made a name for herself in an industry which isn’t too comfortable with women, let alone when crossing over into the zone of humor. But with determination, humor, and an iron self, Bharti has cracked open doors. Bharti reflects today about her personal transformation and how traveling became the core of her life.

“Not many know the work that went into me getting my place in the industry,” Bharti said. “Over the years, I have been bombarded with ideas about how I need to live my life. But now, I have to stop, calm down, and do something for me. Traveling does that for me—reconnect, open myself up to the new, and let the little things that really get to my heart, put a smile back on my face.”

With “The Best You”, Bharti invites you to share the travel spirit that builds individual growth and connectivity. Her message boils down to embracing the values of spontaneity and taking refuge in the little things—a serene night under stars, exploration of new cultures, or a first-hand experience of something. Bharti’s own adventure summarizes the ad campaign: travel is not about the locales, it’s about the emotions and experiences that keep you truly alive.

Special Travel Benefits for Times Black ICICI Bank Card Members

Klook’s partnership with Times Black ICICI Bank again expands the relationship with travel and luxury. Times Black Credit Card, made out of a rare metal, targets India’s elite customer segment specifically and gives them a set of hand-curated benefits and luxury offerings. As a result of the relationship, the card members are entitled to exclusive rights to a set of benefits provided through the Klook platform, consisting of:

Special discounts when you book experiences anywhere in the globe.

First access to sold-out events and attractions.

Professional customer service to ensure a comfortable trip.

For the discerning traveler, the Times Black card holds the prospect of taking their travel experiences to a higher level, not just with superior experiences, but with luxury-level service, as well as VIP benefits.

A Revamped Travel Experience for the New-Age Indian Travelers

According to Shivam Tyagi, the Marketing Lead of Klook India and the Middle East, “The Best You” program does not center on simple activity provision. It’s an offer to re-live happy moments and create significant, memorable experiences which have an emotional recall.

“People yearn for a connection now more than ever,” Tyagi explained. “They want to get away from the routine of everyday existence and reconnect themselves with the things and themselves around them. Klook aims to facilitate that connection through heart-touching travel—via shared humor, the rush of a new adventure, the grandeur of a new destination.”

The brand, with all it stands for—informality, self-exploration, and a healthy dose of fun—is perfectly compatible with the traveller of today, who increasingly, through travel, wishes to have a genuine re-invention of the self. Whether it’s the romanticism of a serene Balinese sunset or the frivolous street-food explorations of Bangkok, “The Best You” celebrates the individual moments that, when collectively shared, make travel a holiday and not a trip—and a genuinely transformational experience.

What’s Next: Future Plans and Future Travel Opportunities

Klook and Times Black ICICI Bank joint venture is said to become a defining element of the luxury travel ecosystem of India. For the times to come, the joint venture shall offer card members even more personalized services such as limited edition travel services, exclusive event activities, and broader coverage of emerging travel destinations. That’s just the beginning of what promises to become a new chapter for the new age Indian traveler who seeks luxurious experiences.

Both Times Black ICICI Bank and Klook recognize the evolution of the travel environment and are committed to delivering premium, personalized services that enhance the process of traveling. By leveraging the global platform of Klook and the Times Black card’s exclusive features, the new joint venture seeks to reposition the relationship of premium Indian travelers with the world.

Including Travel as a Part of Self-Discovery This launch of “The Best You” and Times Black ICICI Bank partnership are a true reflection of what travel today is all about. Checking the boxes of the places or seeing the attractions does not hold true anymore, today it is all about the moments, the people, and the experiences that make your trip all the difference. Bharti Singh’s own reflections are a reminder that travel can play a part as a tool of individual exploration as much as a source of much pleasure and connection. As Klook continues to grow its presence in India’s luxury travel market, the partnership marks a new chapter in how India’s elite adventurers see the globe—curated, personalized, and meaningful.



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Find Sunflowers In Full Bloom At These Places In India This Month – Travel and Leisure Asia

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Find Sunflowers In Full Bloom At These Places In India This Month  Travel and Leisure Asia



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