Yvonne Katsande and Dr. Robert Rapiti Discuss China’s New Virus Outbreak the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)

In a recent interview with Yvonne Katsande, Dr. Robert Rapiti, a seasoned general practitioner with over 45 years of experience, discussed the alarming rise of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China and its potential to spread globally. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this virus, which shares symptoms with the flu and COVID-19, is spreading rapidly, with cases already reported in China, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, and Taiwan. As the news spreads, there are growing concerns that governments will once again resort to extreme measures, including lockdowns, travel restrictions, and mandatory vaccinations.
The hysteria and fear that were pushed on the public during COVID-19 had a devastating effect on societies around the world. We were told to fear the virus, to lock ourselves indoors, and to trust the pharmaceutical industry for a solution. In doing so, we sacrificed freedoms, livelihoods, and mental health. Now, with the rise of a new virus, it seems there are some pushing for a repeat of these draconian measures.
During the interview, Dr. Rapiti and  Yvonne Katsande discussed  HMPV, which has reportedly infected around 300 people in China and led to six deaths. While any loss of life is tragic, the numbers don’t justify the kind of extreme response we saw during the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, as soon as the word “contagious” is mentioned, the same calls for lockdowns, travel bans, and vaccinations inevitably follow. This is exactly the path that we must avoid.
The impact of the previous lockdowns cannot be understated. We saw the closure of schools, businesses, and families separated. Economies were brought to their knees, and mental health issues soared depression, anxiety, and even suicides skyrocketed during that period. All of this occurred in the name of “safety,” while the government imposed unprecedented controls over every aspect of daily life. Meanwhile, pharmaceutical companies made billions of dollars, and yet many of the promised solutions failed to deliver as expected.
Dr. Rapiti, in his discussion with Yvonne Katsande, raised important concerns about the potential exaggeration of the HMPV outbreak. He warned that the current focus on the virus could lead to the same overblown panic that we witnessed during COVID-19. The fear surrounding this new virus could lead to irrational decisions, resulting in unnecessary lockdowns and restrictions once again. Dr. Rapiti’s comments reflect the need for a measured and rational approach, one that doesn’t fall prey to the fear-driven motives of those who profited from the previous crisis.
We cannot allow the same mistakes to be made. Fear is not a solution it is a catalyst for greater harm. Dr. Rapiti’s insights, shared in the interview with Yvonne Katsande, serve as a reminder that we need a response that prioritizes transparency, balanced information, and personal responsibility not a knee-jerk reaction based on panic and political agendas. We should resist the temptation to impose measures that destroy livelihoods and worsen societal divisions.
As we face the possibility of another global health scare, we must be vigilant in protecting our freedoms. Lockdowns, travel bans, and mandatory vaccines must not be the automatic solutions. It is time to demand an approach that respects our autonomy and our ability to make informed decisions. We cannot afford another round of restrictions that only leave us more fearful and isolated.