China is experiencing a surge in pneumonia cases caused by HMPV, raising concerns about a potential post-Covid resurgence of infectious diseases. Experts suggest that prolonged lockdowns and social distancing during the pandemic may have weakened population immunity, leading to a higher than usual rate of illnesses as social interactions resumed.
China is seeing a rise in cases of pneumonia caused by HMPV , but it could just be the latest in a line of disease outbreaks after Covid lockdownsThis is Everyday Science with Clare Wilson, a subscriber-only newsletter from i. If you’d like to get this direct to your inbox, every single week,This week, there is increasing attention on a surge of pneumonia cases in China . If anyone is worried that this sounds like theBut there has been a rise in HMPV cases in China .
To understand why this makes sense, we need to consider the normal patterns of infectious disease, before Covid struck. As a result, in the UK’s first winter lockdown of 2020-21, there were very few flu cases. Even in the second year, flu rates were low. Worse was to come. In the winter of 2022-2023, there was also an unusual pattern of infections with a bacterium called Group A streptococcus.
“With the usual fevers and coughs and colds that parents might have felt comfortable waiting at home with, people were coming very early to A&E because they were so worried about what was on the news.”It is too soon to say, but it is possible that the current wave of HMPV in China is also due to a rebound of infections after immunity debt caused by Covid lockdowns.
HMPV Pneumonia China Covid-19 Immunity Debt
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
China Faces HMPV Outbreak, But Experts Say it's Not a Repeat of COVID-19An HMPV outbreak is occurring in China, prompting concerns. However, authorities and experts emphasize that the situation is less severe compared to the COVID-19 pandemic. The virus shares similarities with COVID-19 in its transmission method but is not considered a major threat.
Read more »
hMPV Surge in China Sparks Concerns Amid Rising UK CasesReports of a surge in human metapneumovirus (hMPV) cases in China, coupled with rising infections in the UK, have raised concerns about a potential global outbreak. While UK authorities emphasize that hMPV is not comparable to COVID-19, the increase in hospitalizations and positive cases has fuelled anxieties.
Read more »
China Faces New Virus Threat: HMPV Outbreaks SurgeChina grapples with a surge in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases, raising concerns as the country continues to manage the aftermath of Covid-19.
Read more »
Hospitals Overwhelmed as New HMPV Virus Spreads in ChinaA new virus outbreak in China is causing widespread concern as hospitals are overwhelmed with patients, particularly children affected by a severe respiratory illness. Unverified reports suggest a possible link to the HMPV virus, but authorities are yet to confirm the cause. The situation has drawn comparisons to the early days of the Coronavirus pandemic, with footage showing long lines of patients seeking medical attention.
Read more »
Mystery Illness Sweeping China: Is It HMPV?A surge in respiratory infections, particularly among children, has prompted emergency measures in China. While the exact cause is under investigation, social media reports and local news suggest similarities to the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies indicate the illness may be human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus responsible for flu-like symptoms.
Read more »
Mystery Illness Sweeping China Hospitals: What is HMPV?A surge in respiratory infections in China is causing hospitals to overflow, with children appearing to be the most affected. While the exact cause remains unclear, social media posts suggest similarities to the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic. Experts believe the culprit is likely Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus with symptoms resembling the flu, common cold, and Covid. HMPV can range from mild to severe, potentially leading to complications like pneumonia, particularly in vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
Read more »