China sees a spike in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases

BEIJING: Just as world has started recovering from Covid-19 pandemic, China finds itself grappling with a significant outbreak of human metapneumovirus (HMPV).

According to reports, Chinese authorities are finding it difficult to contain the outbreak as cases increase due to overcrowded hospitals.

Read more: China steps up monitoring of Pneumonia, respiratory diseases

Social media platforms are reportedly rife with claims that multiple respiratory viruses, including influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumonia and even Covid-19 were circulating throughout the country of 1.4 billion people.

However, there have been no official declaration of a state of emergency from the Chinese government.

The human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is known to produce symptoms akin to those of influenza, primarily  impacting the upper respiratory tract, though it can also result in lower respiratory infections.

The virus typically sees increases prevalence during the winter and early spring months. Symptoms include cough, fever, nasal congestion, sore throat and shortness of breath.

The incubation period for thehuman metapneumovirus (HMPV) ranges from three to six days, with symptom duration varying based on the severity.

Young children, the elderly and people with compromised immune systems are particularly susceptible to severe illness from the HMPV.

Read more: Norovirus: Highly contagious, really disgusting

Potential complications from the virus may include bronchiolitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, exacerbations of asthma  or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

To mitigate the risk of HMPV, health experts recommend thorough handwashing, covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and considering the use of masks.