New Delhi:
As the number of people infected with human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory disease with flu-like symptoms, increases, photos and videos posted on social media show hospitals in China being overwhelmed with people. , there are serious concerns about a new health crisis post-COVID-19.
However, the Chinese government has downplayed the developments in recent days and is treating it as an annual winter event.
As international reports warn travelers to reconsider their travel plans to China for the time being, the Chinese government has issued a press statement to address these concerns. “Respiratory infections tend to peak in winter,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Friday.
He reassured the public and tourists, saying, “I can assure you that the Chinese government cares about the health of Chinese citizens and foreigners coming to China,” adding, “It is safe to travel in China.”
Asked about reports of overcrowded hospitals and a spike in respiratory illnesses, he said, “The severity of the disease appears to be lower compared to last year, and the scale of the spread of infection appears to be smaller.” He also called on citizens and tourists to refer to the guidelines issued by China’s State Administration for Disease Control and Prevention.
There has been a spike in respiratory illnesses across China in recent days, reminding people of similar spikes during COVID-19. Media outlets from neighboring countries such as Indonesia, India and Japan also warned their citizens to be aware of the situation in China and take necessary precautions.
Hospitals in China are overwhelmed with cases of HMPV, influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
What is human metapneumovirus or HMPV
HMPV causes flu-like symptoms and can cause severe respiratory illness, especially among children and vulnerable groups. This is a respiratory virus that causes upper and lower respiratory tract infections. The disease was first identified in 2001, but no vaccine has been developed to prevent it.
Symptoms of HMPV are similar to those of the flu, including cough, fever, stuffy nose, and shortness of breath. However, in severe cases, the virus can cause complications such as bronchitis and pneumonia.
Depending on the severity of symptoms, the incubation period usually lasts 3 to 7 days, and full recovery may take several more days.
HMPV is a contagious disease and can be transmitted through the air as well as by contact. Coughing and sneezing can spread the infection. The virus remains active on surfaces at room temperature, so you can also become infected by touching such objects.
It is similar to the new coronavirus in many ways. Similarities include that both are respiratory illnesses that cause cough, fever, congestion, sore throat, and shortness of breath. Both are spread through respiratory droplets.
