Beware of school holidays, foreign and umrah trips!
Altınbaş University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Chest Diseases Faculty Member Prof. Dr. Şevket Özkaya spoke about the new respiratory virus coming from China: Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV).
The rapidly increasing cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China in recent days are causing concern around the world. Experts point out that this virus, which was identified in 2001, causes respiratory infections especially in late winter and spring. Altınbaş University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Chest Diseases Faculty Member Prof. Dr. Şevket Özkaya said, “HMPV, whose seasonal distribution is not known exactly, causes serious infections mostly in children under 2 years of age. It can cause pictures such as acute bronchiolitis, which can also be confused with asthma.”
News from China scares
Prof. Dr. Şevket Özkaya stated that the disease, which spreads rapidly, especially in Beijing, causes serious infections, especially in young children, elderly individuals and people with weak immune systems. According to the data of Chinese health authorities, there has been an increase in sudden deaths in these groups, Özkaya said, “HMPV manifests itself with symptoms such as flu-like cough, fever, nasal congestion and shortness of breath by descending into the lungs. In 2023, it was also seen in many countries such as the Netherlands, the UK, Finland, Australia, Canada and the USA.
There are no reported cases of HMPV in Türkiye yet
Prof. Dr. Şevket Özkaya stated that no specific case of HMPV has been reported in Türkiye yet. However, he stated that this virus could be carried by people traveling to our country through the Far East and European transit routes. Drawing attention especially to the mid-term holidays and increased Umrah travels, Prof. Dr. Özkaya emphasized that individuals should take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus.
Children under 2 years of age and individuals with weak immune systems are at risk
Prof. Dr. Şevket Özkaya underlined that HMPV is most effective on children under the age of 2, people between the ages of 40-80, advanced cancer patients and people with weak immune systems. Providing information about prevention methods, Özkaya said, “People with flu-like symptoms, especially children, should stay at home. Personal hygiene rules should be observed. The use of masks should be increased. Care should be taken when sick children come into contact with elderly people.”
Prof. Dr. Şevket Özkaya also mentioned that since the incubation period of HMPV is short, it is of great importance for people with flu symptoms to take precautions in order to prevent the epidemic. “Families should pay extra attention to protect individuals, especially those with weak immune systems. Before the interim holiday and travel plans, individuals should increase precautions to protect both their own health and the health of those around them.”