Concerns about Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) have increased since the outbreak in China in December 2024. Many people are questioning whether it could lead to another pandemic, similar to the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020. According to the World Health Organisation, there is usually a rise in acute respiratory infections during winter in several Northern Hemisphere countries.
Concerns about Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) have increased since the outbreak in China in December 2024.
Many people are questioning whether it could lead to another pandemic, similar to the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020.
According to the World Health Organisation, there is usually a rise in acute respiratory infections during winter in several Northern Hemisphere countries.
Seasonal epidemics caused by respiratory pathogens, including respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), seasonal influenza, Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), and Mycoplasma Pneumoniae, are typically responsible for these increases.
The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) states that HMPV is a respiratory virus belonging to the Paramyxoviridae family.
Although it was first discovered in 2001, evidence shows that it has been circulating for decades. In South Africa, HMPV has been observed year-round, lacking a clear seasonal pattern, although it does tend to circulate more frequently during the winter and early spring.
Infographic | What you should know about Human metapneumovirus (HMPV)
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) not considered to be dangerous: Prof. Tulio de Oliveira
Original Story by www.sabcnews.com
