An outbreak of a little-known human metapneumovirus (HMPV) virus has been reported in China, but officials have not yet made detailed statements.
Day.Az reports this with reference to Facti Health.
Despite this, the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed that the number of flu-like illnesses is growing rapidly in the country. The exact extent of the outbreak remains unknown.
Laboratory studies have shown that metapneumovirus is currently ahead of other causative agents of influenza-like illnesses, such as influenza, Covid-19, rhinovirus and adenovirus. However, according to scientists, HMPV has been circulating among the population of China, the United States and other countries for several years, which has allowed the formation of collective immunity.
What is metapneumovirus?
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that causes a flu-like illness in people of all ages, although children, older adults, and immunocompromised people are most at risk. The virus was discovered in 2001 and belongs to the respiratory syncytial virus family.
How does the virus spread?
HMPV is spread from person to person through droplets from coughs and sneezes, as well as through close contact such as hugging or kissing, and through contaminated surfaces. The virus can enter the body through hands that touch contaminated objects and then through the mouth, nose or eyes.
Virus protection
You can protect yourself from HMPV using the same methods as you do against Covid-19: washing your hands frequently, avoiding touching your face with unwashed hands, and minimizing contact with sick people.
Symptoms of metapneumovirus
Symptoms of HMPV are similar to other flu-like illnesses: cough, fever, nasal congestion, runny nose. In some cases, shortness of breath may occur, which sometimes progresses to bronchitis or pneumonia.
Because the virus was discovered relatively recently, there is no specific treatment or vaccine for it. Patients are advised to treat symptoms as they would for the flu and stay home until fully recovered.