Watan-After the spread of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), which causes human pneumonia, and the resulting concerns about a potential new pandemic, a Chinese official spoke out to ease public anxiety and reassure the population.
How to distinguish between the common cold and HMPV pneumonia? 3 reassuring signs
On Sunday, researcher Wang Li Bing from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed that the infection rate of the respiratory virus, known as HMPV and similar to influenza, is declining in northern China.
During a press conference held by the National Health Commission in China, Wang explained that HMPV is not a new virus, as it has been circulating among humans for at least several decades.
She added that the rise in the number of recorded cases in recent years is due to advances and improvements in virus detection techniques. The virus was first identified in the Netherlands in 2001.
HMPV infection detection rate
She pointed out that “currently, the detection rate of HMPV cases is fluctuating, with a declining trend in northern provinces of China. Additionally, the rate among patients under the age of 14 has also begun to decrease.”
Is China facing a new pandemic similar to COVID? Symptoms of HMPV and WHO warnings
HMPV causes symptoms similar to those of influenza or the common cold, such as fever, cough, and nasal congestion. These symptoms usually resolve on their own, but the virus may cause lower respiratory tract illnesses in children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
At present, no vaccines or specific treatments are available for this virus.
Experts recommend preventive measures to avoid infections and other respiratory illnesses, such as regular hand washing, avoiding crowded places when possible, and wearing masks in crowded areas.
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