Questions have been raised by a spike in Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections in China, but specialists say it’s a seasonal tendency. Here are some symptoms to look out for, how the virus spreads, and why taking a few easy steps can help you stay safe this winter.
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is the main cause of the respiratory illnesses that are on the rise in China as winter draws near. Although many people may not be familiar with the term, professionals assure us that HMPV is neither novel nor reason for alarm.
A spokesman for the World Health Organization, Margaret Harris, notes that HMPV is a common virus that spreads throughout the winter. The majority of people experience it by the time they are five years old, and it was initially discovered in 2001.
Cough, fever, and a stuffy nose are some of the virus’s minor symptoms that resemble the common cold. The illness usually goes away on its own in a few days for most people. Nonetheless, more serious sickness can strike susceptible populations, including infants, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems.
Along with other wintertime culprits like flu and RSV, HMPV cases have increased, according to statistics from China’s CDC. Despite the increase, China’s healthcare use is still lower than it was the previous year, and no emergency has been declared.
The key to maintaining good health, according to experts, is prevention. “Basic measures like staying at home when ill, wearing masks in crowded spaces, and improving ventilation go a long way,” suggests Janet Hamilton of the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists.
Although there isn’t a vaccine or particular therapy for HMPV, symptoms can be reduced with rest, water, and over-the-counter medications. Getting medical counsel is still essential for people who are feeling ill.
To prevent HMPV and other seasonal viruses in winter, the suggestion is straightforward: be informed, take preventative measures, and put your health first.
