Hospitals overwhelmed as new virus spreads in China
Photo: A new virus similar to COVID-19 is spreading in China (Getty Images)
Hospitals in China are overwhelmed with patients as cases of the new HMPV virus rise. There are concerns that it could trigger a new epidemic, similar to COVID-19, informs NDTV.
According to the publication, China has experienced a sudden spike in respiratory illnesses in recent days, which "reminding people of a similar surge during COVID-19."
Media in neighboring countries, such as Indonesia, India, and Japan, have also warned their citizens to stay informed about the situation in China and take necessary precautions.
China's response
However, as noted by NDTV, the Chinese government is downplaying the scale of the illness, labeling it as a "annual occurrence in winter."
As international reports advised travelers to reconsider their plans to visit China, Beijing issued a press statement to alleviate any concerns.
On Friday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said, "Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season."
"I can assure you that the Chinese government cares about the health of Chinese citizens and foreigners coming to China," she added, stressing that "it is safe to travel in China."
In response to questions about overcrowded hospitals and reports of a surge in respiratory illnesses, she stated that "The diseases appears to be less severe and spread with a smaller scale compared to the previous year" (referring to COVID-19).
What we know about the new HMPV virus
As journalists report, HMPV causes flu-like symptoms and can lead to serious respiratory issues, especially among children and vulnerable groups.
HMPV is a respiratory virus that causes infections of both the upper and lower respiratory tracts. The disease was first identified in 2001, but no vaccine has been developed to prevent it.
Symptoms of HMPV are similar to those of the flu, including cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. However, in severe cases, the virus can lead to complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia.
Depending on the severity of the case, the incubation period typically lasts 3-7 days, and full recovery can take several more days.
How the virus spreads
HMPV is an infectious disease, meaning it can spread through the air as well as by touch. The virus can be transmitted when coughing or sneezing.
It remains active on the surface of objects at room temperature, so touching such an object can also lead to infection.
Similar to COVID-19
This virus shares many similarities with COVID-19. Both affect the respiratory system and cause symptoms such as coughing, fever, congestion, sore throat, and shortness of breath. They both spread through respiratory pathways.
As reported, the WHO has demanded China to release data on COVID-19, as the origin of the virus has not yet been determined.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
