Flash News

Bota

HMPV in China, WHO: Does not pose a pandemic risk

HMPV in China, WHO: Does not pose a pandemic risk

A surge in cases of the respiratory virus HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) in China has attracted international attention since December last year. However, expert Harris clarified that the situation does not constitute a health emergency and is typical of the winter season.

According to Harris, HMPV is not a new virus. This pathogen, first identified in the Netherlands in 2001, is thought to have been circulating in the human population for a long time.

"Most people develop antibodies to it by the age of 5," she stressed, adding that the virus causes mild cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose and congestion, which usually go away within a few days.

In China, a rigorous surveillance system for respiratory infections has shown that only 5% of identified cases are related to HMPV, while the majority are related to seasonal influenza. Harris assured that there are no signs of hospital overload and that the situation is under control.

However, she appealed for special care for the most vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, young children and people with chronic diseases, who may experience more severe forms of the disease. Harris stressed the importance of vaccination and implementing preventive measures, such as the use of masks in crowded environments, to protect vulnerable groups.

 

Latest news