According to CGTN, since mid-December 12.2024, the number of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections in China has increased, raising concerns about the emergence of a new virus five years after the outbreak of Covid-5.
However, Chinese medical officials and doctors reassure people that HMPV is a familiar respiratory illness. Foreign Ministry spokesperson China’s Mao Ning said on January 3.1 that respiratory infections usually peak in winter. “Cases appear less serious and are spreading on a smaller scale than last year,” Mao said, assuring foreigners they could still “come to China safely.”
Patients in a hospital in Shanghai (China) during the Covid-19 outbreak on January 1.2023
According to CGTN, Chinese media have reported an increase in HMPV infections, with some cases describing flu-like symptoms including dizziness, suggesting a new illness.
However, Chinese experts say HMPV does not pose a new threat. Researcher Trinh Le Xu from the Institute of Microbiology of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said HMPV is a common virus that has been circulating in China. worldwide over the past 60 years, but was not identified until the early 2000s because the symptoms developed slowly and were not specific. The researcher confirmed that for most patients, symptoms gradually disappear within about a week.
Many Chinese hospitals are overloaded with pneumonia
Other infectious disease experts recommend that patients avoid self-diagnosing HMPV based on symptoms such as fever or dizziness and seek medical attention or see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment if symptoms get worse. This illness has symptoms similar to other respiratory illnesses, including cough, nasal congestion, fatigue, gastrointestinal discomfort, and high fever.
-How to prevent and treat
Although most cases of HMPV infection have mild symptoms, a small number of cases in children may develop pneumonia after infection. Specialists emphasize the need to monitor the condition of children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems. Doctors recommend going to a medical facility immediately if you experience symptoms such as prolonged high fever, coma, severe cough, and difficulty breathing.
Chinese experts emphasize patient care as there are currently no specific drugs or vaccines to prevent HMPV. Patients with the disease are advised to rest, eat light meals, and wear clothing appropriate for the weather conditions. Additionally, to prevent viruses, people should wear masks, wash their hands regularly, clean and keep their homes well ventilated, and avoid going to crowded places.
HMPV in other locations
Hong Kong SAR has recently reported several cases of HMPV, according to the site The Independent
. Taiwan and Cambodia are also closely monitoring the situation. Cambodia’s Department of Infectious Disease Control has issued a warning about HMPV, noting that the disease resembles Covid-19 and the flu.
Taiwan’s Centers for Disease Control says the disease poses a higher risk to children, the elderly and those who are immunocompromised.
In India, officials said there was no need to panic because HMPV is “like any other respiratory virus.” “News has been circulating about the metapneumovirus outbreak in China. I would like to clarify this question. Metapneumovirus is like any other respiratory virus that causes the common cold. In very old and very young people, it can cause flu-like symptoms,” said Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) official Dr Atul Goel.
