- Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) activity is currently high in China, but the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has stated that there is no cause for concern in the United States.
- The CDC is closely monitoring the situation, and any increase in cases will be swiftly detected and reported.
- HMPV, a flu-like virus, primarily affects young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
- It is not considered more dangerous than other respiratory viruses like RSV, COVID-19, or influenza. Preventive measures such as washing hands, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and cleaning contaminated surfaces can help reduce its spread.
According to Newsweek, Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) rates are currently elevated in China, but the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasized that the virus is not a concern for Americans at this time. A CDC spokesperson told Newsweek that the agency is monitoring the situation and coordinating with international partners.
Understanding HMPV: Symptoms and Spread
HMPV is a respiratory virus with flu-like symptoms such as cough, fever, runny nose, and shortness of breath. It typically peaks during the winter and spring, contributing to higher rates of flu-like illnesses. The virus spreads through person-to-person contact and contaminated surfaces. Although HMPV is related to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), distinguishing between the two requires diagnostic testing.
CDC’s Monitoring and Preventive Measures
The CDC’s National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) is closely tracking HMPV in the U.S. For the last week of December 2024, the CDC reported that only 1.4% of diagnostic tests for HMPV were positive. The virus is not currently presenting any new or concerning trends, and its activity is now aligning with pre-pandemic patterns.
At-Risk Groups and Preventive Actions
HMPV is most concerning for young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Although it is not necessarily more dangerous than RSV, COVID-19, or influenza, there is currently no vaccine or antiviral treatment for it. The CDC recommends that people wash their hands frequently for at least 20 seconds, avoid touching their eyes, noses, and mouths, and refrain from close contact with sick individuals to reduce the spread of the virus. Cleaning surfaces, especially shared items like doorknobs and toys, can also help prevent transmission.
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Source: Newsweek
