The devastation caused by the coronavirus in China is something that hardly anyone will ever forget. China has still not recovered from the impact of COVID-19 when another dangerous virus made its appearance. Currently, some terrifying images of hospitals in China are going viral on social media, making the situation even more alarming. Everywhere, there is a crowd of patients. According to reports, people in China are being affected by Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) and several other dangerous viruses. Among these, Influenza A and Mycoplasma viruses are primarily making people sick.
What is HMPV (Human metapneumovirus)?
HMPV is a virus that typically causes cold-like symptoms. This virus is affecting children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems the most, which is why these individuals are becoming seriously ill. Patients infected with this virus are facing problems like cough, fever, and nasal congestion. Additionally, this virus can lead to serious diseases like pneumonia and bronchiolitis.
It is said that the transmission speed of this virus is similar to that of COVID-19. It is considered as contagious as COVID-19. This virus spreads through coughing or sneezing by an infected person. Furthermore, touching contaminated surfaces also poses a risk of infection.
What types of diseases can this virus promote?
HMPV can cause both upper and lower respiratory diseases in all age groups, but it particularly spreads more among children and the elderly. However, having a history of lung diseases such as asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), or emphysema does not increase the risk of contracting HMPV. Still, once infected with this virus, these conditions can worsen the severity of symptoms. Similarly, this also applies to individuals with weak immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or recovering from organ transplants.
Who is at the highest risk?
It is said that children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of complications from HMPV infection. This virus can spread through close contact with an infected person or by touching contaminated surfaces. HMPV generally causes cold-like symptoms, which typically resolve within 2-5 days without medical intervention.
WHO has not confirmed it
Although there is a lot of discussion on social media about the virus spreading in China, the World Health Organization (WHO) has not yet responded to it. WHO has not even confirmed the presence of such a virus in China.