HMPV Respiratory Diseases Increase In China, This Is What WHO Says

JAKARTA - China is currently experiencing an increase in respiratory disease for human metapneumovirus (HMPV), which is in the world's spotlight. Data from the Chinese Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released last week stated that China had faced more cases of HMPV in recent weeks.

For this reason, the World Health Organization (WHO) opened its voice through its spokesperson, Margaret Harris. It is stated that the rate of respiratory disease in China is still in the normal range.

It is also common in winter. With that, from the WHO there has been no declaration or emergency action to deal with this.

"No emergency declarations and no emergency responses were triggered," Margaret Harris said, quoted at United Nations, on Wednesday, January 8.

The WHO's global influenza surveillance system has observed an increase in influenza in the northern hemisphere, where this saaat is in winter, so this is suspected," he added.

Margaret Harris also said that HMPV is not a new virus, because it has been identified since 2001. This virus is one that causes ordinary flu and generally does not cause serious illness in humans.

However, in some cases, to be precise, vulnerable groups, such as infants, the elderly, and comobid people, HMPV can cause more serious illness. However, Margaret also emphasized that the death rate of HMPV cases was still very low.

Then Margaret Harris also reminded to take steps to prevent the transmission of HMPV. Starting from wearing a mask to getting a vaccine.

Simple steps can prevent the spread. If they have symptoms, the person should stay at home, wear a mask in a crowded place will be recommended, cover his face when coughing and clean. Washing hands regularly will help, and get the vaccine recommended by the doctor," concluded Margaret Harris.