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Covid-Like Virus Outbreak In China: Should You Be Worried?

It’s been nearly 5 years since the COVID-19 pandemic turned lives upside down globally with the latest COVID-19 deaths exceeding 3.4 million. Now China is grappling with a new outbreak of the human metapneumovirus i.e. the HMPV virus.

According to reports the surge in HMPV cases is concerningly very high. Social media posts and reports suggest that the outbreak is putting the hospitals and crematories under immense pressure.

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The virus is spreading rapidly, with allegations of overwhelmed and overcrowded hospitals. Social media users claim that there is a surge in multiple viruses. It includes influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Covid-19 all circulating simultaneously.

However, there has been no official confirmation from the World Health Organization nor the Chinese Government. The situation in China has sparked panic online. Questions are looming. Will there be another pandemic that might lead to a global shutdown?

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Multiple videos circulating on social media claim that Chinese hospitals are overcrowded with patients suffering from multiple respiratory illnesses. Some online users even allege that China has declared a state of emergency due to the rising HMPV cases.

According to reports from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC) northern China has been identified as the most affected region. The Paediatric hospitals are overwhelmed with cases of pneumonia and “white lung” conditions in children. However, these claims have not been officially verified, yet they have added to public anxiety over a covid like situation.

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What is the HMPV virus and is it similar to COVID-19?

The Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) belongs to the Pneumoviridae family. It was first identified in 2001 by Dutch researchers. Studies suggest the virus has been present for over six decades, making it a common respiratory pathogen worldwide.

According to Cleveland Clinic reports, Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that usually causes symptoms similar to the common cold. It often causes upper respiratory infections, but it can sometimes cause lower respiratory infections like pneumonia, and asthma flare-ups or make chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) worse. HMPV infections are more common in the winter and early spring.

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Most people get HMPV before they turn 5. You can get HMPV again, but symptoms are usually mild after your first infection. Researchers estimate that about 10% to 12% of respiratory illnesses in children are caused by HMPV. Most cases are mild, but about 5% to 16% of children will develop a lower respiratory tract infection like pneumonia.

The primary targets of this virus are believed to be small children and the elderly. Young children with developing immune systems are particularly vulnerable. While Adults over 65 and people with breathing problems or a weakened immune system may also get severe symptoms.

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Meanwhile, the surge in HMPV outbreak has drawn comparisons to COVID-19. This is because both have similar respiratory symptoms, such as cough, fever, and shortness of breath. According to a study published in Virology Journal in April 2024, after COVID-19, the cases of HMPV increased in Henan, China. HMPV infections were almost detected and hospitalized every day between April 29 and June 5, 2023, the study revealed. This suggests a potential link between the two viruses’ resurgence patterns.

What are the symptoms of HMPV?

Symptoms of HMPV often resemble the common cold, Cough, Fever, Runny or stuffy nose, Sore throat, Wheezing, Shortness of breath (dyspnea), and Rashes on the body. In very severe cases the virus can lead to bronchitis, pneumonia, or worsening of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

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The preventive measures:

Wash your hands often with soap and water. If you aren’t able to use soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Cover your nose and mouth with your elbow, not your bare hand when you sneeze or cough.

Avoid being around other people when you or they are sick with a cold or other contagious diseases. Consider wearing a mask if you’re sick and can’t avoid being around others. Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose and mouth. Don’t share food or eating utensils (forks, spoons, cups) with others.

Is there any vaccine for HMPV?

No vaccine or specific antiviral treatment exists for HMPV. Despite being discovered for over 20 years there is no vaccine for HMPV as of now.

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According to Cleveland Clinic reports, Most of the affected individuals can manage their symptoms at home until recovery. However, if symptoms are severe, hospitalization may be required for closer monitoring and to prevent further complications.

In such cases, healthcare providers may administer- Oxygen therapy: To assist with breathing, supplemental oxygen may be provided through a nose tube or mask, IV fluids: Intravenous fluids help maintain hydration, Corticosteroids: Steroids may be used to reduce inflammation and alleviate some symptoms

How is HMPV transmitted?

HMPV spreads through direct contact with someone who has it or from touching things contaminated with the virus. For instance: Coughing and sneezing, Shaking hands, hugging or kissing, and touching surfaces or objects like phones, door handles, keyboards, or toys.

How is human metapneumovirus diagnosed?

HMPV can be diagnosed based on your symptoms and health history. Doctors use a soft-tipped stick (swab) to get a sample from your nose or throat and get it tested. In severe cases, you might be asked to perform a bronchoscopy or chest X-rays to look for changes in the airways of your lungs.

Should India being the neighbouring country to China be worried?

Well, reports are concerning as China is battling with the outbreak, and other Asian countries are also reporting respiratory illness cases. Influenza is on the rise across Japan, with weekly case counts increasing in all 47 prefectures.

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As of December 22, 2024, 211,049 flu patients were reported in 5,000 hospitals and clinics across the country in seven days. The total number of cases in the country for the current season has reached 718,000.

The Data from Hong Kong’s Centre for Health Protection (CHP) revealed that the infection rate for HMPV was 0.72% between December 14 and 21, slightly up from the previous week but still below last year’s figures. Despite this reassuring trend, health officials remain vigilant as flu season approaches.

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However, Flu infection rates in Hong Kong are already on the rise. The CHP reported a flu infection rate of 1.35% between December 14 and 21, up from 1.09% the previous week.

Even after 5 years fragility of global healthcare systems is still recovering from COVID-19. As of now healthcare authorities worldwide are monitoring the outbreak very closely. Many campaigns and initiatives are being taken to make people aware of the symptoms and take preventive measures to mitigate risks.

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