China Faces New Monkeypox Variant Outbreak as HMPV Cases Surge: Health Alert Issued

Beijing (The Uttam Hindu): A new variant of the monkeypox virus, Clade 1B has emerged in China, causing concern as cases of HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) continue to rise. The new variant was identified in a patient who had traveled from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and four other individuals who came into contact with the patient have also tested positive for the virus. In response, China's health department has issued an alert, as the country is already grappling with rising HMPV cases.

The new strain of monkeypox, Clade 1B has been detected in multiple provinces, including Zhejiang, Guangdong, Beijing and Tianjin, prompting the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in China to ramp up testing and tracing efforts. People are being urged to maintain social distancing and practice good hygiene. The infected individuals have been isolated and placed under medical supervision.

Symptoms of the new variant include red rashes and spots on the body that can later turn into blisters or pustules. Common symptoms of monkeypox include fever, headache, chills and muscle aches. The CDC has recommended that people avoid visiting states or regions with rapidly spreading infections. A notice has been issued on the social media platform WeChat, advising individuals to stay away from those showing symptoms of monkeypox or from infected patients. Monkeypox is a viral infection that typically spreads from animals to humans and the symptoms typically last for 2-4 weeks. The CDC has emphasized the importance of avoiding contact with infected individuals or those showing suspicious symptoms to curb the spread of the virus.