Five years following the pandemic, increasing cases of the ‘HMPV’ Virus in China has caused a COVID19-like scare across the world. Amid the sudden spike in respiratory illnesses, increasing fears of a potential virus outbreak, China’s foreign ministry has issued a first statement assuring passengers across the world that it is ‘safe to travel in China’. Health officials have identified several pathogens, including the rhinovirus and human metapneumovirus (HMPV), as possible culprits behind the surge in cases this winter.
According to the media reports, infections across China rose significantly in December, with children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems most at risk. As cases rise and cause panic across the globe, a press statement has been issued from Beijing by the country’s foreign ministry. Spokesperson Mao Ning said, “Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season. I can assure you that the Chinese government cares about the health of Chinese citizens and foreigners coming to China. It is safe to travel in China. The diseases appears to be less severe and spread with a smaller scale compared to the previous year.”
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), was discovered in 2001. HMPV is a respiratory virus that primarily affects the upper and lower respiratory tract. While it can infect people of all ages, it poses a higher risk to young children and senior citizens. The symptoms include, cough, fever, nasal congestion, shortness of breath. In severe cases, the virus can lead to complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia. Symptoms typically appear within three to six days after exposure.
Comments