• Discovered: 2001
  • Family: Pneumoviridae (includes RSV)
  • Type: Respiratory virus
  • Seasonal Prevalence: Most active during winter and early spring.

Symptoms

  • Common Symptoms:
    • Cough
    • Runny or blocked nose
    • Sore throat
    • Fever
    • Wheezing

Transmission

  • Spread Through:
    • Respiratory secretions (coughs, sneezes)
    • Direct contact (shaking hands, hugging infected persons)
    • Contaminated surfaces (doorknobs, phones)

Treatment

  • No Vaccine or Specific Antiviral Treatment

Context in China

  • Pilot Monitoring System:
    • Launched by China’s disease control authority to track pneumonia of unknown origin.
    • Aim: To monitor respiratory infections, particularly in winter, as HMPV has emerged as a significant pathogen among younger populations.
  • Current Situation:
    • Rise in respiratory infections, especially in northern provinces.
    • Viral social media claims of health emergencies have not been officially confirmed.