China faces an increase in respiratory diseases, highlighted by human metapneumovirus (HMPV), especially among children under 14 years of age. Although there is no specific antiviral treatment, it is essential to know the symptoms, vulnerable groups and available treatments.
China faces a increase of respiratory diseases, with special attention to human metapneumovirus (HMPV)a virus which is especially affecting children under 14 years. The upward trend in registered cases and the appearance of pneumonia of unknown origin It generated alarm in the country. In this context, the health authorities intensified efforts to identify unknown pathogens and establish adequate prevention protocols.
He human metapneumovirus it’s a recently identified respiratory virus which is being increasingly recognized for its ability to cause respiratory tract diseases. Its impact on public health in China aroused global interest, since symptoms They can range from mild to severe, especially affecting vulnerable groups.
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BBC
What is human metapneumovirus (HMPV)?
He human metapneumovirus (HMPV) was discovered in 2001 and belongs to the family of Pneumoviridaealong with the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This virus can cause respiratory infections in both the upper and lower respiratory tracts, mainly affecting small children, older people and those with compromised immune systems.
The vulnerable groups include:
- Children under 5 years: They are more likely to develop serious respiratory infections due to their still developing immune system.
- People over 65 years old: Your immune system’s ability to defend against infections decreases with age, making you more susceptible.
- Individuals with chronic diseases as lung diseases, cardiovascular either neurologicalwhich can further complicate respiratory infections.
- People with compromised immune systemslike those who are receiving immunosuppressive treatmentspeople living with HIV or those who received a organ transplant.
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What are the symptoms and their treatment?
The symptoms:
- Cough
- Fever
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing (dyspnea)
- Rash
The treatment:
Although there is no specific antiviral treatment not one vaccine for him human metapneumovirus (HMPV)attention is focused on the symptom management and in providing medical supportespecially during periods of increased virus circulation, such as winter and the spring.
Treatment to relieve symptoms includes the use of expectorant or antitussive syrups for the coughtogether with an appropriate hydration. The aerosols and steam They can also be useful in reducing the irritation in the respiratory tract. As for the feverthe antipyretics like him paracetamol are effective, while the rest and the hydration are essential for a proper recovery.
For the runny or stuffy nosecan be used decongestants either nasal saline solutionsin addition to steam inhalers to facilitate the decongestion. He sore throat is relieved with specific pills, warm salt water rinses and the use of mild analgesics like paracetamol. Maintain the hydrated throat is key to reducing discomfort.
In case of wheezingit is recommended to use prescription bronchodilators by a doctor, which helps open the respiratory tract. The inhalers They may also be effective in controlling wheezing. For cases of difficulty breathing (dyspnea)it may be necessary to supply supplemental oxygen and a constant monitoringIn addition to the administration of bronchodilators and steroids in more serious situations.
Lastly, the rash that sometimes accompanies the infection can be treated with anti-inflammatory creams either antihistamines. If the rash is severe or persistent, it is essential consult a doctor.
Source: Ambito
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
