Social networks have echoed the saturation that several hospitals in Chinawhich faces a circulation of multiple respiratory viruses.
In mid-December, the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention warned of an increasing trend in overall coronavirus infections. respiratory diseases acutesuch as rhinovirus and human metapneumovirus.
Global alert due to massive outbreak of metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China
It is the latter that is showing a higher incidence in people under 14 years of age, especially in the northern provinces.
To deal with the wave of respiratory viruses, health authorities have reported the launch of a new pneumonia monitoring system to improve action protocols against unknown pathogens, in contrast to the lower level of preparation five years ago. years with the Covid-19 pandemic.
In a press conference offered by the Government last Friday, senior official Kan Biao expressed that it is likely that China is affected by various diseases respiratory infections in winter and spring. Without offering more details, he assured that the total number of cases this year will be lower than that of 2024.
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.
influenza virus.jpg
Treatment is based on relieving symptoms with syrups, decongestants and medical support.
What are the symptoms of human metapneumovirus (HMPV)?
The symptoms
- Cough
- Fever
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing (dyspnea)
- Rash
Treatment of human metapneumovirus (HMPV)
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
