The UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed that a so-called ‘mystery virus’ is on the rise in the UK, and a doctor has shed some light on the symptoms to be aware of
A medical professional has shed light on the symptoms of a ‘mystery’ virus that’s currently making its way across the UK.
Health authorities are said to be on ‘high alert’ as HMPV (human metapneumovirus) cases have seen a sharp increase in recent weeks. The UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed the rise in HMPV, stating: “Human metapneumovirus positivity increased to 4.9%, with the highest positivity in those aged 80 years and over at 7.3%.”
This recent surge is believed to have originated in China, where emergency measures were implemented following a spike in cases in northern regions. Images circulating on social media depict hospitals seemingly overrun with patients and individuals donning face masks for protection against the virus.
In an effort to curb the spread, a doctor has taken to TikTok to share vital information about the illness and the symptoms to watch out for. According to Dr Mariana Browne, medical director and GP at Health Direct Services in Trinidad and Tobago, HMPV presents flu-like symptoms and is mild for most people.
She explained: “Did you know that there’s a virus that’s going around that most people don’t know about?” She noted that while HMPV is “more common than you think” – responsible for approximately one in 10 cases of cold or flu-like symptoms in children – it can be “particularly detrimental and even deadly” to certain vulnerable groups.
Dr Browne said “very young children” under five, those over 65, and individuals with conditions like asthma are most at risk. She revealed that despite being identified back in 2001, experts believe this disease has existed in the human population for more than half a century.
She said typical symptoms include “fever, cough, runny nose, shortness of breath or wheezing.” “It can affect your upper respiratory tract or your lower respiratory tract,” she added.
“If it affects your lower respiratory tract, you [may] get something called bronchitis. All of these things are inflammation of the lower airways of the lungs.”
Dr Browne pointed out that the illness is often passed on much like a common cold – through coughs, sneezes, contaminated surfaces or interactions with an infected person. She recommended similar measures to curb the spread as were implemented during the coronavirus pandemic, including washing hands for a solid 20 seconds, wiping down surfaces regularly, and self-isolating when symptoms start showing up.
The World Health Organisation has outlined similar symptoms including cough, fever, sore throat, and other cold-like symptoms, suggesting over-the-counter medications, rest, and hydration as the cure, according to their official page.
“Currently, there is no approved antiviral medicine for hMPV,” the website states. Most people feel better in a few days. If symptoms get worse, they should contact their health care provider. Those who are at higher risk should also consult their doctor, even if their symptoms are not too bad.
“In a small number of cases, when people need to be hospitalised, doctors may give them extra oxygen to help them recover.”
