According to posts on social media, China is currently experiencing an outbreak of human metapneumovirus (HMPV). The articles indicate that the illness is rapidly spreading, primarily impacting children and older adults.
A social media post from the handle SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) asserts that China has announced a state of emergency as the alleged epidemic has inundated hospitals and crematoriums. Nonetheless, this has not been officially confirmed.
In addition to HMPV, several viruses are reported to be rapidly spreading in the nation, such as influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and the Covid-19 virus.
The social media account additionally indicated that children’s hospitals are under pressure due to an increase in pneumonia and ‘white lung’ cases.
The human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is reported to disseminate quickly, five years following the Covid-19 outbreak. Although there is no formal announcement regarding HMPV as an epidemic in the nation, HMPV is present, and this is what you should understand about it.
What is HMPV?
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that induces symptoms very akin to those of the common cold. Typically, it leads to coughing or wheezing, a runny nose, or a sore throat.
HMPV can be serious in young children and older adults. The virus can lead to severe illness in individuals with compromised immune systems.
Symptoms of HMPV
It is classified as an upper respiratory infection, but it can occasionally lead to lower respiratory issues such as pneumonia, asthma exacerbations, or aggravate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as per Cleveland Clinic.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that HMPV was identified in 2001 and is part of the Pneumoviridae family, which also includes respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
The length of the illness can differ based on its severity, though the typical incubation time is between 3 and 6 days.
According to the CDC, symptoms of HMPV infection may advance to bronchitis or pneumonia and resemble those of other viruses responsible for upper and lower respiratory infections.
Prevention
To prevent the transmission of HMPV, health authorities recommend regularly washing hands with soap and water for no less than 20 seconds. Refrain from touching the eyes, nose, or mouth with hands that haven’t been washed and limit close interactions with individuals who are ill.
Individuals exhibiting cold-like symptoms should don a mask when going outside or during sneezing or coughing. It’s also essential to wash hands frequently.
