The Saudi Public Health Authority (Weqaya) has urged people to take precautions against the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a common respiratory virus spreading in China and other countries, offering some guidelines for HMPV prevention.
In a post on its official X account, Weqaya said that the HMPV virus has symptoms similar to the common cold, including coughing, fever, runny nose, and sore throat.
The virus is transmitted through coughing, sneezing, or touching contaminated surfaces or objects. In most cases, the symptoms are mild, according to the Public Health Authority.
However, HMPV can cause severe illness to some people, particularly young children, elderly people, and people with weakened immune systems.
In the light of this, Weqaya provided some guidelines for HMPV prevention. It recommended washing hands regularly, and covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
China has been experiencing a rise in HMPV cases across its northern provinces during winter, particularly among children, with photos and videos circulating on social media showing hospitals overcrowded with people wearing masks. These scenes have raised alarm across the world over a new virus outbreak similar to COVID-19 pandemic.
Although most HMPV cases are mild, the virus complications can cause pneumonia, asthma, bronchiolitis, bronchitis, or ear infection, especially among people over 65, young children, and immunocompromised people. The virus’ incubation period is 3 to 6 days, and there is no vaccine or specific medication for HMPV.
