The Ministry of Health says it is monitoring the situation and emphasizes the importance of vaccination
THE World Health Organization (WHO) released an official note on Tuesday 7th on the increase in respiratory infections in the northern hemisphere and related reports increase in cases of human metapneumovirus (hMPV) in China.
According to the entity, the numbers are within the expected range for winter in this region. “In temperate climates, seasonal epidemics of common respiratory pathogens, including influenza, frequently occur during winter periods,” it reads.
Regarding the situation in Chinathe WHO said it was in contact with local health authorities and had received “no reports of any unusual patterns of outbreaks”.
Data published up to 29 December 2024 indicates that acute respiratory infections, including hMPV, have increased in recent weeks, particularly in the country’s northern provinces, but this growth is expected at this time of year.
Furthermore, Chinese authorities have told the WHO that the health system is not overloaded. They also indicated that the current hospital occupancy rate is lower than the same time last year and that there have been no emergency declarations or responses.
The Ministry monitors the cases
The Ministry of Health said it is monitoring the hMPV epidemic in China and that the Brazilian epidemiological surveillance is in constant communication with health authorities from the WHO and several countries to exchange information.
The ministry recalled that the risk of a pandemic is considered low by experts and underlined the importance of measures to prevent and control respiratory infections, in particular vaccination.
“Vaccination against COVID-19 and influenza is one of the most effective means of prevention, especially for priority groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, children and people with comorbidities,” the general coordinator of Covid-19 surveillance said in a statement, on flu and other respiratory viruses at the ministry, Marcelo Gomes.
“Furthermore, the use of masks by people with flu and cold symptoms helps reduce the transmission of all respiratory viruses, including metapneumovirus,” he stressed.
What is hMPV?
hMPV is one of several pathogens that circulate around the world each year. causing respiratory diseases. In countries with months of cold weather, it may have an annual season, similar to what happens with the influenza virus. In locations near the Equator it circulates at lower levels throughout the year.
hMPV is similar to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)with symptoms like cough, fever, nasal congestion and wheezing. Most infections are mild and resemble common colds. However, more severe cases can cause bronchitis or pneumonia, especially in infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised people. Individuals with pre-existing lung disease, such as asthmachronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or emphysema have a higher risk of complications.
In high-income countries, the virus is rarely fatal. In low-income countries, with fragile health systems and limited surveillance, deaths are more common.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
