'Mystery' virus cases rise in UK as Brits told to 'mask up'

The UK is on high alert amid a surge in cases of a 'mystery' virus. Earlier in the month, China had deployed emergency measures as the north saw a spike in what has since been identified as the HMPV virus.

Children seem to be badly affected by this sickness with social media posts showing overcrowded hospital wards filled with young patients presenting Covid-like symptoms. The images depict people donning masks in hospital settings, reminiscent of the early days of Covid back in late 2019.

As Chinese reports of fever, coughs, and sore throats reached a climax, research indicated that the "mysterious illness" had reached British shores and this has since been confirmed.

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Now the latest figures from the UK Health Security Agency signal another climb in incidents of Human metapneumovirus (hMPV), reports the Daily Star.

The update states: "Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) positivity increased to 4.9%, with the highest positivity in those aged 80 years and over at 7.3%."

This data stems from around 7,826 tested specimens, following advice given weeks prior suggesting Britons may want to "consider wearing a face mask" to help halt the spread.

Additionally, NHS England's chief executive Amanda Pritchard has voiced concerns over the strain that winter ailments impose on healthcare services.

She stated: "It is difficult to put into words just how tough it is for our frontline staff at the moment. We are really worried about the toll that flu and other viruses are taking on our patients and on services across the NHS. Not only are staff managing high levels of A&E attendances and ambulance calls, they are also caring for really sick people who have been admitted and need specialist care.

"While I was visiting AandE this week, despite such acute pressures, the compassion and skill displayed by staff was incredible - I know that this is the case up and down the country. Although we do have provisions in place to manage additional demand, including the use of critical incidents to monitor and manage pressures, having more beds than the previous year, and developing innovative ways of working to ensure that individuals can be provided with care in their homes.

"But the public can play their part too - please do seek help when you need it. We would rather see you sooner when viruses are easier to treat, than later when it is more difficult."

Dr Conall Watson, Consultant Epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency, explained: "hMPV is a common respiratory infection in winter, and we typically see activity reaching a peak at this time of year. Infections are usually mild, causing symptoms of a common cold. Our surveillance systems in GP surgeries and hospitals indicate that levels are in line with what we would expect to see. Most people have had hMPV by the time they are five years old and catch it again throughout their lives."

He advised the public saying, "As with all respiratory viruses, you can help reduce infections being passed on through regular handwashing and catching coughs and sneezes in tissues and throwing them away. If you have symptoms such as a high temperature, cough and feeling tired and achy, try to limit your contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable. There are many viruses in circulation at the moment, including flu - if you have symptoms of a respiratory illness and you need to go out, our advice continues to be that you should consider wearing a face mask."

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