There is currently a lot of discussion about the HMPV virus which spread in China and has been found in Indonesia. Everyone is scared because the HMPV virus attacks the respiratory system like covid-19, but in reality it doesn't. The human metapneumovirus or HMPV virus is a type of infectious viral infection of the respiratory system whose symptoms are the same as the common cold and most of the patient are children. Most people think the HMPV virus comes from China. In fact, the HMPV virus is an old virus that came from Europe. I disagree, because there are three things that differentiate between HMPV and covid-19. That is symptoms, target of transmission, as well as different prevention and treatment.
The first thing that differentiates the two viruses is the symptoms experienced by patients. HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) presents common symptoms such as cough, runny nose, mild fever, shortness of breath, and sore throat, with more severe symptoms including pneumonia and bronchiolitis. On the other hand, COVID-19 typically presents with fever, muscle aches, fatigue, and loss of smell and taste as common symptoms, while severe symptoms may include severe pneumonia, acute respiratory distress, and organ failure.
The second difference between the two viruses is their transmission targets. The target population or the group of people most vulnerable to HMPV infection includes infants, children, and the elderly. This is because infants and children have underdeveloped immune systems, while the elderly have weakened immune responses. In contrast, COVID-19 primarily affects individuals with weakened immune systems, those with underlying health conditions, and the elderly, due to reduced immune responses and declining organ function.
The third difference is in prevention and treatment. HMPV can be prevented through handwashing, wearing masks, and practicing proper coughing etiquette. It has no specific treatment and is managed with supportive care only. COVID-19, however, can be prevented with vaccination and good room ventilation, and can also be treated with antivirals such as Paxlovid and Remdesivir.
Currently, there is widespread discussion about the HMPV that is spreading in China and has also been found in Indonesia. It is often mistaken for the COVID-19 virus. Based on the statements and arguments above, there are three things that differentiate between HMPV virus and COVID-19, that is the symptoms experienced by patients, the target of transmission, as well as the prevention and treatment methods. Therefore, to protect ourselves from both viruses, we can maintain hand hygiene, always wear masks in public places, strengthen our immune system, and get vaccinated as a preventive measure to increase personal awareness.
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