China is currently facing a surge in Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections, causing strain on hospitals and raising global concerns.
This outbreak comes five years after the emergence of COVID-19, triggering fears of another pandemic. However, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning has reassured the public, stating that HMPV is a seasonal virus that typically peaks during winter and early spring.
What is HMPV?
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus from the Pneumoviridae family, closely related to Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Discovered by Dutch scientists over 20 years ago, HMPV has been causing respiratory illnesses globally for more than 50 years.
The virus primarily affects children under five, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. While most infections are mild, severe cases can lead to pneumonia and other complications requiring hospitalization.
Symptoms and Transmission
Common Symptoms Include:
- Cough
- Fever
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Skin rash
Transmission:
- Through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing
- Close contact with infected individuals
- Touching contaminated surfaces
The virus can remain active on surfaces at room temperature, increasing the risk of indirect transmission.
High-Risk Groups
- Children under five, especially premature infants
- Elderly individuals over 65
- People with weakened immune systems (e.g., HIV, cancer, autoimmune diseases)
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Komarudin, 48, a volunteer undertaker, prepares his personal protective equipment at the group’s headquarters before collecting the body of a person who died due to complications related to COVID-19 while isolating at home in Bogor, West Java province, Indonesia. [Willy Kurniawan/Reuters]
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Komarudin, 48, a volunteer undertaker, prepares his personal protective equipment at the group’s headquarters before collecting the body of a person who died due to complications related to COVID-19 while isolating at home in Bogor, West Java province, Indonesia. [Willy Kurniawan/Reuters]
Potential Complications
In severe cases, HMPV can lead to:
- Bronchiolitis
- Bronchitis
- Pneumonia
- Asthma or COPD flare-ups
- Ear infections
Diagnosis and Treatment
Doctors diagnose HMPV through symptom evaluation, nasal swabs, chest X-rays, or bronchoscopy.
Treatment:
- Rest and hydration
- Decongestants and cough suppressants
- Oxygen therapy in severe cases
- Intravenous fluids
- Corticosteroids for inflammation
Note: Antibiotics are ineffective against HMPV as it is a viral infection. However, secondary bacterial infections may require antibiotic treatment.
Prevention Measures
- Wash hands regularly with soap or alcohol-based sanitizers
- Cover nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing
- Wear a mask if experiencing flu-like symptoms
- Avoid close contact with infected individuals
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
- High fever above 40°C
- Difficulty breathing
- Blue skin, lips, or fingernails
While HMPV poses a significant risk to vulnerable groups and can overwhelm healthcare systems during outbreaks, it is generally manageable with proper care and precautions. Public awareness and preventive measures remain key to reducing the spread of this virus.
(Sources: CDC, WebMD, Cleveland Clinic)
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Source: Vietnam Insider