New virus begins to spread in China and alarms are raised.
Although speculation is circulating on social media about the declaration of a state of emergency, Chinese authorities have not officially confirmed this measure.
A new virus, the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), is causing concern worldwide for its ability to cause respiratory illnesses of varying severity in people of all ages, especially young children, older adults and those with compromised immune systems.
The human metapneumovirus (HMPV) was discovered in 2001, and has recently made headlines due to an increase in cases in China, although local authorities have not declared an "outbreak" or a state of emergency.
Although speculation is circulating on social media about the declaration of a state of emergency, Chinese authorities have not officially confirmed this measure. Meanwhile, videos showing crowded hospitals and seriously ill patients have gone viral, recalling the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic.
HMPV is mainly transmitted through respiratory secretions when coughing or sneezing, as well as by close contact with contaminated hands or surfaces.
To prevent the spread of HMPV and other respiratory viruses, measures such as washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands, and keeping distance from sick people are recommended. Those with cold-like symptoms should wear a mask, cover their cough or sneeze, not share utensils or drinks, refrain from kissing, and stay home until they recover.
Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV, so the medical approach focuses on symptomatic management.