Recent reports of an outbreak of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in China have raised concerns among South Africans about another global pandemic.
However, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a statement saying that the Northern Hemisphere winter is expected to see an increase in the detection of a respiratory virus similar to the common cold, flu and flu.
“HMPV is a common respiratory virus that circulates in many countries from winter to spring. Although some cases may be hospitalized with bronchitis or pneumonia, most people infected with HMPV have mild upper respiratory symptoms similar to the common cold and recover within a few days.” day later,” he said. WHO Disease Outbreak News Report.
The WHO says it is in contact with Chinese health officials and has not received any reports of unusual outbreaks. there were no statements or responses,” the WHO report said.
As there has been an expected seasonal increase in respiratory viruses, health advisories have been issued to the public to prevent the spread of respiratory infections and reduce the impact of these illnesses.
WHO and other health experts have recommended that in areas with flu season, individuals take precautions to prevent the spread of respiratory pathogens, especially to the most vulnerable, such as those with compromised immune systems, the elderly and the young.
These preventive measures include the following:
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or bent elbow.
- Practice regular hand washing.
- Get recommended booster vaccinations as advised by your doctor and local public health authorities.
- Individuals may also consider wearing a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated areas.
Prof Tulio De Oliveriasaid the director of Stellenbosch University’s Center for Pandemic Response and Innovation resistance that South Africans need not worry.
“HMPV is an old virus, discovered about 40 years ago, but has been around since the late 1950s. It is a respiratory virus that is known to cause the common cold, but less severe than the flu in the very young and in many adults, it can cause flu-like symptoms — common cold or flu symptoms such as cough, fever, nasal congestion and shortness of breath,” explained Well, Oliviera.