The virus is part of the same family as Respiratory Syncytial Virus (VSR), another one as well known as this one. But it has a high hospitalization and mortality rate in serious cases, something that worries authorities and health systems above all.
According to experts, HMPV began to spread in the 1960sdespite having only been detected 23 years ago. Mainly, affects young children, older adults and people with comorbidities.
Has several similarities with Covid-19given that transmitted through airborne dropletsa mechanism that has already become familiar with said virus. Besides, its appearance resembles The characteristic ball shape with spikes.
However, studies indicate that More than 90% of children were infected with the virus before the age of 10but since their immunity is not long-lasting or permanent, they can have reinfections throughout life. It also has a significant level of contagion by touch, breathing or saliva, among other options.
There is still no specific vaccine, which places the virus in a risk zone, given the context in which cases are constantly increasing. That is why the outbreak affecting northern China generated saturation in the guards hospitable, although exact infection numbers remain unconfirmed.
Experts point out that mortality in severe cases reaches 11%, which far exceeds that of other respiratory viruses. Besides, low temperatures exacerbate the incidence of respiratory diseases, as happens in that region.
However, neither World Health Organization (WHO) nor the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued formal alerts so far.
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.
What are the symptoms of human metapneumovirus (HMPV)?
The symptoms are:
- Cough
- Fever
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Wheezing
- Difficulty breathing (dyspnea)
- Rash
Source: Ambito
David William is a talented author who has made a name for himself in the world of writing. He is a professional author who writes on a wide range of topics, from general interest to opinion news. David is currently working as a writer at 24 hours worlds where he brings his unique perspective and in-depth research to his articles, making them both informative and engaging.
