Researcher Wang Liping from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention reported a decline in the rate of infection with the “HMPV” virus in northern China, amid growing concerns about the potential for a pandemic.

Wang explained that the virus, which causes flu-like symptoms such as fever and cough, can lead to severe respiratory illnesses in children and the elderly.

also noted that the recent increase in cases is due to improved detection methods, and that there are currently no vaccines or effective treatments available.