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.
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 Infections China Illness Outbreak COVID-19
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