The number of human metapneumovirus cases is rising in China. Here’s what you need to know about hMPV.
The human metapneumovirus is causing a surge of respiratory infections in China. This virus closely resembles Covid or a common cold: it is not an overly complex viral illness, but it can lead to complications such as pneumonia.
Reports UNN citing livemint, The Guardian, and SIC Notícias.
Details
China is experiencing a spike in human metapneumovirus cases, particularly among children. This outbreak has resulted in hospitals across the country being overwhelmed.
What is hMPV?
The human metapneumovirus (hMPV) was discovered in 2001.
In the United States, it causes approximately 20,000 hospitalizations annually among children under the age of five.
hMPV is one of the four most common viral infections among patients in China. Currently, the incidence rate is rising among young individuals, especially in the age groups under 14 years.
Symptoms
The human metapneumovirus belongs to the same family as the respiratory syncytial virus. Experts note that hMPV causes symptoms such as cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath, which last for a duration similar to other respiratory infections.
Risks
It is crucial to understand that in more severe cases, it can progress to bronchitis or pneumonia.
Professor of Virology Andrew Easton explains that the risk of human metapneumovirus has "not changed in the last 25 years." However, he emphasizes that changes in the incidence or nature of the infection should raise "concerns."
The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention warned in early December about an increase in respiratory infections in the country's hospitals. However, experts state that the risk of a new pandemic similar to Covid is low.
The Issue
Experts assert that hMPV is not like Covid-19, as it has existed for several decades, and the global population has a certain level of immunity from past infections.
It is important to recognize that Covid-19 is a new disease that had never infected humans before, leading to a pandemic-level spread.
"I don't think we necessarily need to be concerned about a pandemic of this virus (hMPV - ed), but the spike in cases and its impact is significant," said Griffin.