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Chinese authorities have asked citizens to wear face masks and wash hands frequently to avoid human metapneumovirus (HMPV). According to China’s CDC website, human metapneumovirus is an RNA virus. It belongs to the Pneumoviridae, Metapneumovirus genus.
Metapneumovirus is an RNA virus that was first discovered in 2001 by Dutch researchers studying samples from children with respiratory infections.
Studies have shown that metapneumovirus has existed for at least six decades. It has spread throughout the world as a common fossil.
Metapneumovirus spreads mainly through droplets through coughing and sneezing. Infection can also occur through close contact with infected people and exposure to contaminated environment.
According to the CDC website, metapneumovirus is most commonly found in winter and spring. HMPV attacks children and people with weak immune systems. Symptoms include cough, fever, nasal congestion and wheezing.
In severe cases, metapneumovirus can also cause bronchitis and pneumonia.
According to Lung.org, in serious cases doctors may perform bronchoscopy. In this, a small, flexible camera is inserted into the lung and a sample of fluid is removed to test for the virus.
HMPV can kill people who already have the disease. In 2021, an article in The Lancet Global Health cited data showing that HMPV was responsible for 1 percent of deaths in children under five years of age with acute respiratory illness.
According to nkl.com, over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help. Decongestants can also help to relieve nasal congestion.
People with COPD, asthma, and pulmonary fibrosis may have severe symptoms and may require medication to control wheezing and coughing.
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Published at : 03 Jan 2025 01:11 PM (IST)
