Recently, cases of "Human Metapneumovirus" (HMPV) have appeared in many countries, and Hong Kong has also seen several infections in the past two weeks. Lokyi Lai stated last night (7th) that his son, Fung Fung (Little Spring Chicken), has unfortunately contracted the virus, causing a high fever and pneumonia. Paediatrician Dr. Chan Yan Wing also shared information on identifying symptoms and prevention methods for this virus.
"The eldest son of Li Nuo-yi contracted human metapneumovirus"
Yesterday evening (6th), Lawrence Ng posted on social media that his son, Feng Feng, had unfortunately contracted "human metapneumovirus". The viral infection has caused Feng Feng to have a persistent high fever and pneumonia, causing concern. Lawrence Ng also urged all parents to pay close attention to their children and to seek medical attention as soon as possible if they exhibit symptoms such as coughing, colds, or fever.
And Lawrence Ng's wife, Lily Lee, also posted on her IG story to let everyone know she was safe, sharing a video of Fung Fung being admitted to hospital, looking in good spirits. She also mentioned that although Fung Fung still had a fever, he was no longer feeling as unwell as before.
Children most susceptible to infection, symptoms similar to RSV virus
According to the Department of Health website, human metapneumovirus is a single-stranded RNA virus that was first discovered in 2001. Paediatrician Dr. Chan Yan-wing stated that human metapneumovirus is a common respiratory syncytial virus. The incubation period for the virus is generally 3 to 6 days, and it is highly contagious, with children being the most susceptible to infection.
He also stated that human metapneumovirus (HMPV) shares similar symptoms with common respiratory viruses like RSV, including cough, phlegm, and runny nose, which are symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections, and can also cause a high fever.
Furthermore, the virus can spread through droplets and affect gastrointestinal health, leading to symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea in some patients. Infection with human metapneumovirus also poses a risk of bronchitis and pneumonia, and in children, it can lead to middle ear infections.
No targeted treatment, personal hygiene needs to be maintained.
Dr Chan pointed out that there are currently no specific treatments for human metapneumovirus, and only supportive treatments can be provided to alleviate the patient's symptoms. He reminded parents to ensure their children practise good personal hygiene, such as washing their hands frequently, covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and washing their hands afterwards; they should also maintain good lifestyle habits, such as getting enough rest.
He also reminded parents that children in Hong Kong have been infected with different viruses in recent months, such as Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), parainfluenza virus, and Influenza A, and that they must pay more attention to personal hygiene.
The above information was provided by Dr. Chen Hsin-yung.
Source: Parenting Headline (7 June 2023)
https://bit.ly/3CePQnQ
