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.
A 'mystery illness' that is reportedly causing overcrowded hospitals in China has seen a rise in people suffering from respiratory infections - but what exactly is it? In an effort to track and combat this 'new' virus, China has already put emergency measures in place as cases have begun to surge across northern Chinese provinces.
Although many were initially baffled by this 'mystery illness', it's not actually new but was first identified 24 years ago in 2001. The virus is only now causing concern due to its widespread impact across China and its supposed resemblance to the initial Covid outbreak just over five years ago.Like many other respiratory illnesses, HMPV is a single-stranded RNA virus, which means it can spread through respiratory droplets, such as coughing and sneezing.
On Friday, January 3, Reuters reported that Chinese authorities are testing a new system to track pneumonia cases of unknown origin, sparking concerns about a potential rise in severe pneumonia cases, known as White Lung. A government study from gov.uk, which monitors illnesses similar to COVID-19, indicates that the same strain of HMPV responsible for China's outbreak has reached UK shores.
HMPV Respiratory Virus China Hospitals Illness
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