China New Virus HMPV: China is seeing an increase in respiratory diseases, including human metapneumovirus (HMPV). According to social media reports, the virus is spreading rapidly. Some people claim that crowds are being seen at the hospital and crematorium. Social media users are claiming the presence of several viruses including influenza A, HMPV, mycoplasma pneumonia and COVID-19. The HMPV virus spreading in China is matching the symptoms of flu and Covid-19. This is being closely monitored by the health officials.
Many viruses including HMPV are becoming dominant in China. China’s Disease Control Authority (DCA) announced a pilot monitoring system to prevent the spread of the HMPV virus. A surge in respiratory illnesses is expected in China during the winter, Reuters reports, prompting authorities to create protocols to deal with unknown microbes, a sharp contrast to the initial COVID-19 response. Officials anticipate a continued increase in infections related to the respiratory disease during the winter and spring. Rhinovirus and HMPV are among the newly discovered viruses, which are mostly affecting people under the age of 14 years.
What is HMPV virus?
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is an RNA virus, which belongs to the Pneumoviridae family. It was first discovered by Dutch researchers in 2001. This virus mainly causes respiratory infections and spreads through coughing or sneezing. It can also spread rapidly by coming in contact with infected people. Its infection period is 3 to 5 days, and it is most common in winter and spring.
soft target of virus
The main soft targets of HMPV are children and the elderly. These are the same groups that were most affected during the Corona epidemic. In view of the increasing outbreak of the virus, health officials have advised people to wear masks, avoid crowded places, and frequently sanitize hands.
China’s response and potential risks
Chinese officials have warned that cases of respiratory diseases may increase rapidly in the country during the winter and spring seasons. China’s disease control authorities said on Friday that they were running a surveillance system for the unknown type of pneumonia. However, there is still concern that the Chinese government is not fully revealing the real data and situation related to the virus.
Lack of vaccine against HMPV
There is currently no vaccine available for human metapneumovirus. Its symptoms are like common cold, but it can also cause serious infection. The number of cases among children under 14 years of age is increasing, due to which Chinese health officials are worried.
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