HMPV Virus Outbreak in China: What is it?
The recent china virus outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China is of global concern, with several countries, including India, becoming more and more interested in the ongoing situation. While mainly being guarded against respiratory viruses, the query is now HMPV. It is a virus that has some characters in like with COVID-19.
What is HMPV virus?
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that causes both upper and lower respiratory infections. It is similar to common colds or influenza. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) detected it in 2000s. It belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, but it has been also joined by the recently observed RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus). The virus, despite not being a new entity, is documented to have been around since about the pre-1960s era.
HMPV virus vs. COVID-19
HMPV and the SARS-CoV-2 virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic show few similarities to each other, among the common ones are the following:
Respiratory Symptoms: Both viruses cause cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath.
High-Risk Groups: Children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals are most vulnerable to severe symptoms.
Transmission: Spread occurs via respiratory droplets, close contact, and contaminated surfaces.
Seasonality: Just like with COVID-19, HMPV has its seasonal episode patterns with the peak occurring in the winter and early spring. Hospitals are well-equipped. They’ve the necessary resources to oversee a respiratory outbreak.
China’s Response and Global Monitoring
The Chinese foreign ministry has highlighted that respiratory infections hit a high during the winter and the current china virus outbreak is not as severe as previous years. The World Health Organization (WHO) is to update the information on a regular basis.
In light of the world being vigilant against the HMPV outbreak in China. Being informed, staying hygienic, and the usage of preventive measures can surely be very soothing to the spread of respiratory illnesses.
Stay informed and Get the latest updates on the HMPV outbreak in China with thenewsbuzz.
