How dangerous is the HMPV virus?
China's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have provided an explanation of the virus's mortality rate amid growing concerns after reports of a Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) epidemic in China. Immunocompromised individuals, the elderly, and children are especially susceptible, and they are more prone to co-infect with other respiratory viruses. According to China's CDC, HMPV causes normal cold symptoms including cough, fever, nasal congestion, and wheezing, but in extreme cases, it can also result in bronchitis and pneumonia.
"HMPV infection can result in death in susceptible individuals with underlying medical conditions," the CDC added. According to data from a 2021 Lancet Global health article, HMPV is responsible with 1% of acute lower respiratory infection-related mortality in children under five. Since there is currently no vaccination or effective drug to prevent HMPV, the main goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms. The Director-General of health Services, Dr. Atul Goel, urged individuals to take general measures and reassured the public that there is nothing to be frightened about in light of the HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) epidemic in China.
Hospitals are ready to handle the seasonal spike in respiratory infections, Dr. Goel told reporters. Like any other respiratory virus that causes the common cold, metapneumovirus can induce flu-like symptoms in both young and old people. We have examined the nation's respiratory outbreak data, and the 2024 data shows no appreciable rise. In any event, there is a respiratory illness outbreak in the winter, and our hospitals are equipped with all the beds and resources they need," he stated. "I would like to ask the public to take general measures, which include taking the regular medications given for fever and cold and avoiding contact with others to stop the spread of the illness. Otherwise, there is nothing concerning about the current state of affairs," Dr. Goel continued.
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