HMPV virus - latest: Cases begin rising across parts of the world after outbreak in China
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India, Malaysia and Kazakhstan have began reporting cases of the virus. China is experiencing a surge in infections of a respiratory virus, leading to public concerns about an outbreak. The virus, identified as human metapneumovirus (HMPV), has seen cases spiking across northern Chinese provinces this winter, particularly among children.
Other countries, such as India, Malaysia and Kazakhstan have started reporting cases of the virus. Photos and videos of people wearing masks in hospitals in China emerged on social media platforms and local reports suggested hospitals were becoming crowded.
HMPV is a respiratory disease that causes flu or cold-like symptoms. However, it can increase risks or lead to more serious complications like bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly among the elderly, young children, and immunocompromised people. China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Friday: “Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season.
“The diseases appear to be less severe and spread with a smaller scale compared to the previous year.”. Experts have said the virus is unlikely to spread in the same way Covid-19 did because HMPV is not a new virus among the global population. Human metapneumovirus, or HMPV, is a respiratory virus that causes symptoms similar to the common cold and influenza. While the illness is typically mild, it can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, particularly in infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
