Virus cases set to spike this spring - the red flag symptoms to watch out for

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A common germ called human metapneumovirus (hMPV) can cause serious respiratory infections - but many people don't know it even exists.

Cases of an obscure virus that most Scots have never heard of are expected to spike this spring. Experts are warning us not to blame the usual suspects such as RSV, Covid or the flu for symptoms such as a runny nose.

It was first identified by scientists in the Netherlands in 2001 and is spread through close contact with an infected person or by touching contaminated areas or items. It causes a short illness, lasting two to five days, and then goes away on its own. If this happens, sufferers are advised to see their GP, who may prescribe a temporary inhaler or stronger medicine. People often catch this bug unknowingly and are only tested for it in hospital.

Almost everyone has been infected by the bug by the age of five, but it can also affect older children and adults. Tests show that cases in the UK are decreasing, with 0.8% of patients testing positive for hMPV in the week leading up to May 21.

 

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