Health authorities: HMPV cases in China according to winter expectation

Health authorities: HMPV cases in China according to winter expectation

In China, respiratory infections have increasingly occurred this winter, which has led to an increased interest in a lesser -known virus: the human metapneumovirus (HMPV). This Situation arouses concern about whether the increasing number of cases could also be internationally noticeable.

What is the human metapneumovirus (HMPV)?

The human metapneumovirus, also known as hmpv Cause people of all ages. Current Data from the Chinese health authorities Increase in cases.

course of the respiratory diseases in China

HMPV typically circulates in winter in the northern hemisphere. The data of the Chinese CDC also show that the number of other common respiratory diseases, such as the seasonal flu and the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), have also increased. "The registered respiratory infections in China are in the normal area. This is not extraordinary seasonally," said Margaret Harris, a spokeswoman for the WHO, in a press conference.

The effects on the health system

To dispel the concerns, she added that the hospital utilization in China was lower compared to the previous year and that there were no emergency measures in connection with these respiratory infections. Harris emphasized that HMPV is not a new virus, but has been known since 2001.

Frequency and symptoms of HMPV

In the USA, the CDC pursues the cases of HMPV along the same criteria as other respiratory viruses. It is estimated that, for example, 10% HMPV due to. The symptoms that are often associated with HMPV infections are cough, fever, clogged nose and shortness of breath.

distribution of the virus

HMPV spreads through droplet infection, e.g. through cough or sneezing, as well as through touch, for example when shaking hands or when contacting contaminated surfaces. "Simple measures can prevent the spread. If you are sick, stay at home," says Harris.

risk and treatment recommendations

particularly at risk for serious infections with HMPV are people with a weakened immune system, including newborn and older people. "In mild cases of HMPV, calm and fluid intake is often sufficient. There is no specific antiviral drug, so over -the -counter drugs can help relieve the symptoms," explained a health expert.

FAZIT

The mild cases of HMPV usually last a few days to a week, and many people recover within two to five days. "In the case of symptoms that are similar to those of flu, you should keep calm and drink a lot. If there is a lot of discomfort, a visit to the doctor is advisable," said John Tregoning, professor of vaccine immunology.