New Virus? No Worry, Say Experts: China Enhances Monitoring of Respiratory Diseases”>HMPV Has Been Here Before
Amid concerns over the novel coronavirus infections worldwide, an unusual calm is enveloping China over a new health scare. That’s because it isn’t really new at all. A meta-pneumovirus, or HMPV, has been recognized for years and is not known to be severe or highly contagious. Professor Angel Kunchev, the Chief State Health Inspector, reassured the public that this virus is well understood and should not raise alarm.
We’ve encountered HMPV in Bulgaria before and its effects are mild, he clarified. There have been no fatalities linked to the virus in China. Our priority remains on managing the flu epidemic, which is currently at its peak.
As we’re in the midst of flu season, 11% of tested samples have come back positive. Several cases have been traced back to countries like Thailand, Australia, and others. The strain from Thailand is expected to be predominant, according to Professor Kunchev.
Despite the vigilance, it’s clear that menacing sounds worse than it is. With HMPV, there’s unlikely to be any confusing symptoms. If you’re feeling unwell, chances are it’s the flu and you should stay home until you’re better. Let’s not forget basic hygiene practices and let the medical professionals guide us through these common health events.
