What do we know about the recent spread of the respiratory virus in China?

The increase in infections with a respiratory virus known as human metanemovirus (HMPV) in China is causing concern among many people and countries, due to the similarity of its symptoms to those of the flu and the common cold.

This virus reminds people of the Corona epidemic, which went around the world, especially since the virus began to appear at that time also in China.

As for the recent appearance of the virus in China, it indicates increased surveillance of cases and highlighting of it, and not necessarily its actual beginning, according to Dr. Dirar Al-Balaawi, professor and consultant in the treatment of infectious diseases.

Speaking to BBC Arabic, Al-Balaawi said the virus was first discovered in the Netherlands in 2001, but the common belief is that it had been around a long time before that, even though it is relatively new in terms of discovery.

It adds that the virus is considered the second leading cause of acute respiratory illness since 2016, in healthy children under five years of age in outpatient clinics in the United States of America, after respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which belongs to the group of acute respiratory diseases. same family.

Studies indicate that it spreads seasonally, usually in spring and winter, according to Dr. Al-Balaawi.

Dr Al-Balaawi explains that the virus infects all age groups, but poses a greater danger to young children, the elderly, people with weakened immune systems and people with respiratory illnesses chronic conditions such as asthma, according to him.

He explains that the infection causes, in most cases, mild symptoms similar to those of the common cold, such as runny nose, cough, sore throat and fever, adding that in some cases it can cause serious lower respiratory tract infections, such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis, which may require… Hospitalization, especially for the most vulnerable groups.

Modes of transmission and speed of propagation

Human metanemovirus (HMPV) is transmitted, according to Al-Balawi, through respiratory droplets resulting from coughing or sneezing, or through direct contact with surfaces contaminated with the virus.

He emphasizes that the speed of spread of the virus is not precisely known, as studies are currently being carried out to better understand the nature of its transmission.

According to him, the virus does not currently represent a global epidemic threat, but knowledge of its symptoms and ways to prevent it is crucial to limit its spread and protect the groups most at risk.

He notes that methods of preventing the virus are similar to those used to prevent colds and flu, and are as follows:

• Wash your hands well with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue away immediately.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
• Stay home when you feel sick to avoid infecting others.

Asked about the need to take measures to prevent him from moving from one country to another, as are the Corona-related measures, Al-Balaawi said that at present there is no no conclusive evidence indicating the need for strict measures at the country level. level of international travel.

“It is, however, recommended to follow public health guidelines to prevent infection, which include good hygiene,” he added, stressing the importance of closely monitoring the evolution of the epidemiological situation of the virus to assess the need for further action.

Al-Balaawi reports that there is no specific treatment for human metanemovirus, but that treatment mainly depends on alleviating symptoms.

The doctor advised her to rest and drink plenty of fluids, as well as use over-the-counter medications to relieve the fever and pain.

In cases of severe infection, he believes hospitalization may be necessary, where supportive care, such as oxygen and mechanical ventilation, can be provided.

Generally speaking, experts emphasize the importance of monitoring the situation and constantly updating information as HMPV research progresses, according to Al-Balawi.

A press conference by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning on Friday also raised questions on this topic.

In response, Mao Ning said more cases of respiratory infections had been reported in the northern part during the winter.

She noted that “China’s National Centers for Disease Control recently held a press conference to announce measures to control respiratory diseases in China during winter.”

She added: “Compared to last year, these diseases were found to be less dangerous and less widespread this year. I want to assure you that it is safe to travel to China.

China’s neighbors are monitoring the situation with concern, with Indonesia’s Ministry of Health issuing a statement days ago saying that Indonesia is “monitoring the transmission of HMPV in China and points of entry into the country are monitored, which includes measurements. such as quarantining passengers arriving from abroad who show symptoms. Flu-like symptoms.

Indonesia’s Antara news agency reported that Health Ministry spokeswoman Vidya Vathi asked residents to take precautions, such as using masks and washing their hands with soap.

Unlike Indonesia, Dr Atul Goyal, director general of Indian Health Services, said there was no cause for concern.

In a statement released Friday, Goyal said there were not many cases of the virus in India.

He added: “We are constantly monitoring the situation. Last year there was no increase in the number of infections in December.”

The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention released data showing a notable increase in respiratory infections during the week of December 16-22, 2024. The virus was associated with 6.2% of positive test results for respiratory diseases and 5.4% of hospitalizations for respiratory diseases. diseases in China, surpassing COVID-19, rhinovirus and adenoviruses.