HMPV cases spreads globally, how are the symptoms similar to COVID-19?

HMPV spreads globally, showing similarities to COVID-19 in symptoms and transmission.

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A Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China has sparked global attention, leading countries like India to monitor the virus and its transmission closely.

Malaysia has also recently reported a significant increase in HMPV cases.

On Saturday, the Indian Health Ministry held a meeting to review the situation. However, authorities in India have assured the public that there is no immediate cause for alarm.

Videos circulating on social media from China have reportedly shown congested hospitals and overwhelmed healthcare systems, raising concerns among health experts.

 

 

 

 

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Are HMPV and COVID-19 similar?

The two viruses, HMPV and COVID-19, share similarities, as both cause respiratory symptoms such as coughing, fever, sore throat, congestion, and shortness of breath.

Both viruses spread through respiratory droplets, and severe cases can require hospitalization.

However, HMPV typically peaks during winter and spring, unlike COVID-19, which can spread year-round due to evolving variants.

Health experts note that some regions have seen HMPV cases triple following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.

The drop in exposure to viruses during lockdowns may have weakened immunity, contributing to a rise in respiratory infections as precautions were lifted.

While both HMPV and COVID-19 cause respiratory illnesses, the viruses affect people of all ages. However, young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems are more likely to experience severe cases.