HMPV outbreak in China: A new virus in China has raised concerns. Infections caused by human metapneumovirus (HMPV) have been reported in the country as authorities step up screening, detection and isolation protocols to deal with unknown pathogens. Videos on social media show worrying conditions in hospitals, where waiting rooms are crowded with patients wearing masks. Some videos surfaced in which patients were seen coughing.
China has reported increasing cases of hMPV, especially among people under 14 years of age in northern provinces. reuters The news has been given quoting officials.
Steps taken by China
Earlier on December 27, China’s disease control authority said it was conducting a surveillance system for pneumonia of unknown origin, amid fears cases of some respiratory diseases may increase during the winter. An official statement indicated that data on acute respiratory diseases showed an increase in overall infections during the week of December 16 to 22, as reported reuters,
Kan Biao, an official, told a news conference that China is expected to face a variety of respiratory infections during winter and spring, reuters Informed. He said the total number of cases this year is expected to be lower than last year, although he did not provide further details.
What are the symptoms of HMPV?
Common symptoms of HMPV are cough, fever, nasal congestion, and difficulty breathing.
In addition, other clinical signs of infection may increase and problems such as bronchitis or pneumonia may occur.
The incubation period for infection is typically three to six days, meaning individuals may begin to experience symptoms within this time frame after exposure.
The duration of illness may vary depending on the severity of the infection.
Should India be worried?
Currently, there have been no reports of HMPV in India or any other country except China. According to official sources, the National Center for Disease Control (NCDC) under the Union Health Ministry is closely monitoring respiratory and seasonal influenza cases in the country and is in touch with international agencies. Year Informed.
However, it is advised to follow basic precautions to prevent the spread of infection, such as washing hands with soap, avoiding touching your face with unwashed hands, maintaining distance from infected people, isolating if you have symptoms, sneezing, Time to cover your mouth and nose. , not sharing cups and utensils, and staying home if unwell.
(With inputs from Reuters)
