HMPV Infections Surge in China, Cases Reported in India and the UK
In recent months, China has witnessed a significant rise in a flu-like viral disease, particularly affecting children. Cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) have also emerged in India and the UK, raising global health concerns.
Masked Children Seek Medical Attention in China
Children wearing masks were seen at hospitals in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, as the virus spreads rapidly. The surge aligns with seasonal patterns of respiratory illnesses.
What is HMPV?
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus causing symptoms similar to the flu or common cold. First identified in the Netherlands in 2001, it is a common infection, particularly in children under five years of age.
How is HMPV Transmitted?
The virus spreads via droplets from an infected person’s coughs, sneezes, or breathing. It can also be contracted by touching contaminated surfaces and then the nose, mouth, or eyes.
Impact on the Body
HMPV targets the respiratory tract, attaching to epithelial cells in the airways and lungs. This causes inflammation and symptoms such as coughing and nasal congestion. While the immune system combats the virus, the response itself contributes to the symptoms.
HMPV Cases by Region
China
In northern China, children under 14 have been disproportionately affected. The spike coincides with colder weather, which typically sees a rise in respiratory illnesses. Health officials have introduced a monitoring system for unknown pneumonia cases.
India
Seven confirmed cases have been reported across states like Karnataka, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu. Authorities have urged the public to maintain hygiene and avoid panic while boosting surveillance for respiratory illnesses.
United Kingdom
In late December 2024, lab tests showed that 4.5% of respiratory samples tested positive for HMPV. While this is a slight increase, influenza remains more prevalent at 29.5%, followed by COVID-19 at 2.5%.
Contagiousness and Severity
HMPV spreads easily but is not typically fatal in healthy individuals. Most recover within 7-10 days with mild symptoms. However, vulnerable groups, including infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals, are at greater risk of severe complications like bronchitis or pneumonia.
Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
Cough
Fever
Nasal congestion
Wheezing
Breathlessness
Sore throat
High-risk groups may experience more severe and prolonged symptoms.
Treatment
There is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV. Management focuses on symptom relief through hydration, rest, and fever-reducing medications. Severe cases may require hospitalization and oxygen therapy.
Precautionary Measures
Health experts recommend maintaining good hygiene, wearing masks in crowded places, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals to reduce transmission risks.
As the virus spreads across regions, monitoring and public awareness remain crucial to managing HMPV effectively
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