FLASH
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The new virus affects children and the elderly more...
A 'mysterious disease' has filled hospitals in China.
In an effort to monitor and treat this 'new' virus, China has already implemented emergency measures as cases have started to rise in China's northern provinces. And it seems that children are the target of this nasty disease, with symptoms similar to Covid.
Social media posts show photos and videos of people wearing masks in hospitals, with local reports claiming the scenes eerily echo the start of Covid in late 2019.
As numbers peak with those presenting with fever, cough and sore throat in China, studies suggest the 'mystery disease' is already close to Europe. But what will we be dealing with?
What is HMPV?
The virus is believed to be metapneumovirus (HMPV) - a respiratory virus with symptoms similar to flu, the common cold and Covid.
Like the three diseases mentioned above, HMPV can be mild, with symptoms ranging from fever, cough, sore throat and fatigue. There is an incubation period of three to six days, which means you can have the infection without showing symptoms during this time period.
However, HMPV can also pose a major threat to humans in more severe cases. The respiratory virus can lead to various complications, including pneumonia.
The most severe cases of HMPV appear to be associated with children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
Although referred to as a 'mystery disease', it is actually not new, but was first identified 24 years ago in 2001. The virus is only now causing concern due to its sweeping effect across China .
So how does it spread? Like many other respiratory diseases, HMPV is an RNA virus, which means it is able to be inhaled, spreading through coughing and sneezing. People can also become infected by coming into contact with contaminated surfaces.
What is happening in China?
China is currently on "high alert" with the HMPV outbreak. Despite rumors circulating on social media that the nation has declared a state of emergency, there has been no official announcement from either the Chinese government or the World Health Organization (WHO).
Although there are three other major types of influenza - Adenovirus, Parainfluenza and Rhinovirus - currently circulating, all showing declining trends, HMPV showed an increase.
On Friday, Reuters revealed that Chinese authorities are currently testing a new system to monitor cases of pneumonia that have come from an unknown origin. This has prompted concerns about a possible increase in cases of "White Lung", which describes severe cases of pneumonia.
Like the experience of many other countries, China has cited an expected increase in cases at this time of year due to seasonal changes. As the weather changes and time spent indoors increases, it's prime time for respiratory viruses. This has led Chinese health officials to assure that this is nothing more than a seasonal disease situation. / Adapted "Pamphlet" from "Daily Star"
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