2023-11-08 05:40:10
Dr. Manoon Reveals Outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus in Thailand
On November 8, 2023, Dr. Manoon Leechawengwong, a physician at Vichaiyut Hospital, took to his personal Facebook to warn the public about an ongoing outbreak of the Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) in Thailand. This comes after the report of a 72-year-old Thai man testing positive for the virus, highlighting the need for awareness and vigilance in the face of this respiratory illness.
The patient, who had a history of high blood pressure, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease, presented with symptoms such as cough, fever, difficulty breathing, and abnormal sounds in the lungs. Upon examination, it was found that the virus had entered his lower respiratory tract, causing significant respiratory distress and the need for oxygen support. Testing revealed the presence of hMPV, prompting the administration of oxygen therapy, steroids, and eventually dialysis. After a 12-day hospital stay, the patient’s condition improved significantly, and he was able to recover without the need for oxygen supplementation.
It was also noted that the patient’s wife, who was healthy, had also contracted hMPV from her husband but experienced milder symptoms and recovered within five days.
Dr. Manoon emphasized the importance of being aware of the symptoms of hMPV, which closely resemble those of other respiratory illnesses such as influenza, COVID-19, and RSV. He urged individuals experiencing fever, body aches, cough, phlegm, fatigue, and difficulty breathing to seek medical attention and get tested for hMPV, especially as the virus is more common than before and testing is readily available.
Furthermore, given the lack of a specific antiviral drug or vaccine for hMPV, Dr. Manoon stressed the need to provide treatment according to symptoms, making it crucial for healthcare professionals to monitor and manage the condition of affected individuals closely.
As the country enters the end of the rainy season and the beginning of winter, Dr. Manoon’s warning comes as a timely reminder for the public to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves from respiratory illnesses, such as hMPV.]
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