A doctor responds to HMPV lockdown rumours swirling on social media.
Videos and pictures of a hospital in China, which has been overrun by masked people, some of whom are suffering fromHuman metapneumovirus is a common respiratory virus that can cause cold-like symptoms such as coughing, a runny nose and sore throat., however some groups might be more susceptible to serious illness such as young children, adults over 65 and people with weakened immune systems.
The virus has been circulating in the UK for years and recent date from UKHSA shows that it is “currently following its usual seasonal pattern in the UK”. shows the disease was “circulating at low levels of activity,” though the UKHSA adds Christmas socialising, festive changes to healthcare use, and lagged reporting ought to be considered.You may have seen news stories about human metapneumovirus virus cases in China.
The doctor continued: “It is unlikely that any new health issue will have an impact on our lives on the same scale as Covid-19, unless it presents with similar characteristics, such as being highly infectious, causing significant illness, and having limited treatment options or preventative measures.”
What’s more, Professor Jill Carr, a virologist at Flinders University, noted the rise in HMPV cases is different from Covid – the latter virus was “completely new” to humans as it had originated in animals.“HMPV can certainly make people very sick, but the current situation in China with high HMPV cases is very different from the threats initially posed by SARS-CoV-2”.
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.
HMPV Infections Rise in Northern China, Sparking Online ConcernCases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) are on the rise among children in northern China, leading to online anxieties. While the Chinese government downplays the severity, claiming the spread is smaller compared to previous years, videos suggesting overwhelmed hospitals have fueled concerns.
Read more »
HMPV Virus Sparks Fears of Outbreak in India and ChinaTwo babies in India have been hospitalized after testing positive for the HMPV virus, raising concerns of a possible outbreak. Unverified videos circulating on social media claim to show hospitals overwhelmed in China with cases of the virus, but Indian authorities deny any link between the cases.
Read more »
Emerging hMPV Lineages Spark Concerns and Opportunities in Managing Pediatric Respiratory InfectionsA new study from India investigates the prevalence and genetic diversity of emerging hMPV lineages, A2.2.1 and A2.2.2, in children under five. This research aims to improve public health understanding and preparedness for respiratory viral outbreaks.
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 »
HMPV Virus Outbreak Overwhelms Chinese HospitalsA surge in cases of a lesser-known virus, human metapneumovirus (HMPV), has led to hospitals in China being overwhelmed with patients, particularly children. The situation has sparked comparisons to the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, with social media footage showing packed hospital units and long lines at pediatric wards. While officials are yet to confirm HMPV as the cause, reports suggest it could be responsible for the spike in respiratory illnesses. Chinese CDC officials warn that multiple flu-like illnesses are on the rise, with 7.2% of outpatient visits in northern provinces attributed to flu-like symptoms.
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 »