Countries neighboring China are closely monitoring the situation as Hong Kong reports a few cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV).
China is experiencing a rise in HMPV cases, raising concerns of a potential health crisis reminiscent of the COVID-19 pandemic. HMPV typically causes flu-like symptoms and can result in severe respiratory issues, particularly among vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
There has been growing speculation online, fueled by social media posts showing overcrowded hospitals, that China may be facing another epidemic. Reports indicate that the country is dealing with a fresh health challenge, five years after the devastating COVID-19 outbreak, which led to lockdowns and significant loss of life.
At present, China is managing an outbreak of HMPV, with videos on social media purportedly showing crowded hospitals and a strained healthcare system. Health experts are concerned about the spread of this respiratory virus, which is affecting several countries in Asia.
According to a report from Reuters, "Recent cases have included pathogens such as rhinovirus and HMPV, with an increasing number of HMPV cases among children under 14, particularly in northern provinces."
Despite the growing concerns, neither the Chinese government nor the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a state of emergency. The increase in infections is being closely monitored, especially as the winter season is typically associated with a rise in respiratory illnesses. HMPV is reportedly spreading rapidly alongside other viruses, including influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and COVID-19.
China has downplayed the flu outbreak, assuring that the country remains safe for travelers. Meanwhile, India's Ministry of Health has reassured the public that there is no immediate cause for concern regarding the HMPV cases in China, and the situation is being closely monitored.
HMPV Symptoms
The CDC lists the following common symptoms of HMPV:
- Cough, runny or stuffy nose
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Wheezing or shortness of breath (in severe cases)
In some cases, HMPV can lead to bronchitis, pneumonia, or exacerbate asthma symptoms.
How to Prevent HMPV
To help reduce the risk of contracting HMPV and other respiratory infections, the CDC recommends the following:
- Wash hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
- Wear masks in crowded areas, especially during outbreaks.
- Stay home when feeling unwell to help prevent spreading the virus.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces regularly.
- खांसी, बहती या बंद नाक
- बुखार
- गला खराब होना
- घरघराहट या सांस की तकलीफ (गंभीर मामलों में)
- कुछ मामलों में, एचएमपीवी ब्रोंकाइटिस, निमोनिया या अस्थमा के लक्षणों को बढ़ा सकता है।
- नियमित रूप से साबुन और पानी से कम से कम 20 सेकंड तक हाथ धोएं।
- अपने चेहरे को गंदे हाथों से छूने से बचें।
- भीड़भाड़ वाले इलाकों में मास्क पहनें, खासकर प्रकोप के दौरान।
- वायरस को फैलने से रोकने में मदद के लिए अस्वस्थ महसूस होने पर घर पर रहें।
- बार-बार छुई जाने वाली सतहों को नियमित रूप से साफ करें।