What is human metapneumovirus
#HMPV – the pathogen currently in the news coming from China?
It’s a fairly common respiratory virus that usually causes relatively mild symptoms like cough, fever, nasal congestion and wheezing.
Severe cases, however, can lead to pneumonia, especially in infants, the elderly or those with underlying conditions.
It spreads through droplets, close contact or contaminated surfaces.
Currently, there's no specific antiviral therapy to treat HMPV and no vaccine to prevent it.
Simple infection control measures – applicable to a range of respiratory diseases, from the common cold and influenza to
#COVID19 and HMPV - can prevent spread and reduce risk:
☑️Stay home when ill and wear masks in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces.
☑️Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or bent elbow.
☑️Wash hands and clean surfaces regularly.
Stay informed. Stay safe.
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