The world has grown in concern as China battles to control an outbreak of a new HMPV outbreak that shares many symptoms with Covid-19.
However, one doctor has been quick to take to social media to reassure the public that the new virus may not be as deadly as first thought. Posting to TikTok Dr Victoria King said: “Let’s clear this up once and for all. You might have seen on the news and on social media posts about something known as HMPV (human metapneumovirus). Is there a new virus in China? The answer is no.
“Let me reassure you that HMPV is not a new virus, it has been around for decades, it was first identified in 2001. HMPV is one of those viruses that can cause coughs, colds and flu-like symptoms and of course, during the winter you will get seasonal infections such as flu and HMPV.
“There will be an increase and a spike around this time of year which is expected. Now the good news about HMPV is that it often causes a mild cold-like symptoms. It is usually short lived and for most people we would recover without any problems. Of course if you are very young or are very old or have other medical problems, you might need to seek medical attention.”
However in more severe cases the virus can still cause some discomfort. Diana Davison, an American woman who caught HMPV recounted how she was “unable to speak” after chronic and deep coughing leading her to think she caught Covid.
For the vulnerable, the virus could lead to more severe infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia however for the vast majority sufferers should be back to normal within a few days.
Kids seem particularly vulnerable – with children’s hospitals across China overcrowded with people showing symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, weakness and dizziness.
However, Dr King puts the surge in cases down to an increased testing and awareness of the virus. The GP added: “HMPV has recently gained attention because of increased testing and awareness. As people become more vigilant about respiratory illnesses, especially post-COVID, viruses like HMPV are being identified more frequently.”
To protect yourself from the airborne virus, doctors recommend being as hygienic as possible. Regular handwashing, proper sneeze etiquette, and tissue disposal are all recommended.