The Outbreak of respiratory infections is increasing in Myanmar and neighboring countries. Respiratory infections include human metapneumovirus (HMPV), rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, and mycoplasma pneumonia. Seasonal flu (Influenza A H1N1) is said to be the most common type of flu.
The Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a virus currently experiencing a rise in infections, is not a new virus like Covid 19. HMPV virus transmitted to every person of any age. The infection rate is faster than normal and some people may suffer more severe than others. The state-run newspaper reported that as there is no vaccine yet, if someone is infected we can only provide treatment to alleviate the symptoms.
“Not a new Virus”
HMPV virus had infected since last 2014 and 2015 years. According to recent research data, there have been cases of HMPV infection among people visiting outpatient department for treatment. Since the virus has infected in Myanmar before, it is not a new one like Covid 19. Since the infection has occurred and it is not a new type of virus, it can be assumed that the immune system has already taken place in the body.
Seasonal influenza viruses, including HMPV, and viruses of respiratory illnesses are more common during the winter months. International media reported that HMPV infections are rising in the People’s Republic of China and transmission is also high in some Asian countries. According to data from China Disease Control and Prevention Center, it is a normal pattern that happens in winter season, but the number of cases and severity of the disease are lower than last year.
“People who may suffer most”
HMPV virus can infect every person of any age. People who are likely to suffer most are young children, the elderly, and those have weak immune systems. When these people are infected with the HMPV virus, care should be given because the disease can be more severe for them. The symptoms of severely suffered patients differ from normal symptoms and may experience conditions such as bronchitis and pneumonia. Due to the HMPV virus, some children may have symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, rashes, and high fever leading to seizures. The incubation period of the disease ranges from 3 to 6 days, and common symptoms include coughing, fever, nasal congestion, and difficulty in breathing.Among the patients having symptoms, when elderlies age 60 and above, young children, pregnant women, and people with weak immune systems experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing and extreme fatigue, it is important to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest hospital or clinic.
The mortality rate due to the HMPV virus remains below one percent of all deaths caused by respiratory diseases. The transmission pattern of the HMPV virus is similar to that of the COVID-19 virus. It spreads through droplets and particles released when coughing or sneezing. It is learnt that the disease can be transmitted through contact with infected individuals, handshakes or close interactions. It can also be infected through the mouth, nose, or eyes by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. Most infected individuals typically start to recover within 3 to 10 days after the appearance of symptoms.
“No Vaccine”
For the time being, there is no anti-virus and Vaccine. Treatments can be given just to relieve symptoms. In performing laboratory testing for HMPV infection, virus genome testing can be done by using Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT), or the virus antigen testing by using Immunofluorescence or Enzyme Immunoassay.
The disease prevention method is the same as that of Covid-19. Every time touching the faces of materials, making handshaking with others, wash your hands using soap and water or hand sanitizer at least 20 seconds later. It is necessary to stay away from people with symptoms such as cough, fever, and stuffy nose and people with these symptoms should also avoid crowded areas. Whenever it is inevitable to travel, it is necessary to properly wear masks to cover the mouth and nose. It is said that Myanmar is placing special emphasis on and prioritizing disease surveillance and response measures for prevention, control, and treatment in a timely manner.
Translated by Nyan Tin
