Feeling under the weather lately? 🤒 You're not alone! China has seen a rise in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) since mid-December 2024. But before you start worrying about a new super-virus, let's break it down.
Some people have reported \"flu-like\" symptoms like dizziness and fatigue, sparking buzz about a mysterious new illness. 🕵️♀️ But health officials and doctors are here to set the record straight: HMPV isn't new—it's just often flying under the radar.
So, what's the deal with HMPV?
According to Zheng Lishu, a researcher at the Institute of Virology at the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HMPV has been around the world for over 60 years! 🌍 It's just that scientists only identified it in the early 2000s because it grows slowly and its symptoms aren't super specific.
\"For most people, the symptoms will gradually subside in about a week,\" Zheng assures. That means a bit of cough, maybe some nasal congestion, and general tiredness. Sounds familiar, right?
Don't play doctor just yet! 🩺
Ruan Zhengshang, deputy head of the department of infectious diseases at Xinhua Hospital in Shanghai, warns against jumping to conclusions based on how you're feeling. \"It's not accurate to judge influenza, HMPV, and other respiratory infections based on the level of fever or dizziness,\" he says. If you're feeling worse or symptoms persist, it's best to see a medical professional for the real deal diagnosis.
Keep an eye on the little ones and elders 👵👶
Tang Lanfang, head of the department of respiratory diseases at Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, points out that while most cases are mild, some kids might develop more serious issues like pneumonia. She advises parents to watch out for signs like high fever that doesn't go away, extreme tiredness, a worsening cough, or trouble breathing.
No specific meds, but plenty you can do 😊
Just like when the U.S. saw a bump in HMPV cases earlier in April 2024, experts emphasize that there's no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV. But don't let that get you down! The best course of action is supportive care: get plenty of rest, eat light and nourishing foods, and dress comfortably.
And of course, let's not forget our pandemic habits: wear masks in crowded places 😷, wash your hands regularly 🧼, keep rooms ventilated 🌬️, and try to avoid packed spots when you can.
Stay safe and take care of each other! 💛
Reference(s):
China sees rise in HMPV infections, but it's not a 'new virus'
cgtn.com
