A mysterious flu-like virus, human metapneumovirus (HMPV), is on the rise across northern Chinese provinces this winter. The European Union has taken notice, monitoring cases of the disease in collaboration with China’s CDC and WHO/EURO.
Cases of HMPV have seen a significant spike, particularly among children, causing flu-like symptoms. Similar concerns are being raised in neighboring countries such as Cambodia and Taiwan, which are keeping a close watch on the situation.
Unlike COVID-19 and influenza, there is no vaccine for HMPV. Experts advise taking precautions to prevent transmission, including avoiding crowding, wearing masks, and practicing good hand hygiene.
The virus has been circulating for at least six decades but lacks name recognition due to its rarity. Researchers in the Netherlands first identified HMPV in 2001 through a study of children with unexplained respiratory illnesses.
As the outbreak continues to spread, Singapore, Nepal, and China have reported spikes in HMPV cases. Authorities are urging citizens to practice good hygiene to mitigate the spread.
While some health experts have downplayed the severity of the outbreak, others warn that it could be a concerning development, similar to the early days of COVID-19. The true extent of the crisis remains unclear as Beijing downplays the developments and focuses on managing annual winter occurrences.
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/health/hmpv-virus-china-human-metapneumovirus-uk-symptoms-latest-b2676263.html