Doctor reveals HMPV symptoms to look out for amid spike in virus cases

Hospital
-Credit:Getty Images


A doctor has revealed the symptoms to look out for amid new cases of a virus. in China There is said to have been a rise in the number of cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in recent months.

According to Dr Catherine Hyatt, of online pharmacy MedExpress, there are a number of symptoms to look out for. HMPV tends to cause flu or cold-like symptoms, she said.

Dr Hyatt said: "HMPV, or Human Metapneumovirus is an RNA virus that was first identified in the Netherlands in 2001. However, a recent surge in cases in China is causing concern in a post-Covid pandemic world.

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"HMPV can cause flu or cold-like symptoms and can present in adults and children. The infection is usually mild, however, can cause complications for vulnerable groups such as the elderly or those who are immunocompromised.

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"Like many other respiratory illnesses, symptoms of HMPV can include sore throat, wheezing, and cold or flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, runny nose, cough). Those more vulnerable groups may experience more severe infection symptoms which can include acute bronchitis, pneumonia and bronchiolitis.”

Reports have suggested that there has been overcrowding in hospitals in China, with thousands falling ill with HMPV. But health experts have said that the virus is not new and infection rates are now understood to be declining in China.

Dr Hyatt said: "The HMPV virus is transmitted by contact with someone who has the virus, or by touching surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. This can include coughing or sneezing, shaking hands, hugging etc.

"Like other respiratory infections, we see cases can rise to their peak during the winter and early spring. This may be related to increased social occasions indoors in the colder months.

"Whilst it’s helpful to be aware of HMPV, it’s important to remember that we have known about this virus for some time which makes it different from our experience of the emergence of COVID."

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Dr Hyatt went on to say that there are things you can do to reduce the spread of the virus. She said: "Just like any other virus, a few preventative methods can help reduce the risk of being infected.

"Washing your hands with soap and water or hand sanitiser, covering your nose or mouth when sneezing, avoiding being around people if you know they are sick if possible, and avoiding touching your face can all prevent the spread of HMPV."