Infection Intersection

If you’ve been following global health news, you might have heard about a recent outbreak of human metapneumovirus (hMPV) in China. While hMPV may not be a household name like the flu or COVID-19, this respiratory virus has been quietly affecting populations worldwide for decades. So, what is hMPV, and why should we care about this outbreak? Let’s break it down. What Is Human Metapneumovirus? Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a common respiratory virus first identified in 2001. Part of the Pneumoviridae family, it shares similarities with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and can cause illnesses ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory infections. The most vulnerable populations include young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems ( CDC ). Microscopic visualization of the human metapneumovirus (hMPV), a common respiratory virus known to cause infections in children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Symptoms and Transmission Hu...

  A video of a boy with pertussis ( whooping cough ), demonstrating the cough's distinctive "whoop" sound. US Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Whooping cough, or pertussis, is making headlines again as cases surge across the United States. A recent CNN article highlights the troubling rise in infections, pointing to gaps in vaccination, waning immunity, and other social and structural factors as key contributors. At Infection Intersection, we’re breaking down the resurgence of pertussis and what it means for you and your community. What Is Pertussis? Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis . It’s marked by severe coughing fits that can leave individuals gasping for air, often producing a high-pitched "whoop" sound, especially in children. The disease can lead to complications such as pneumonia, seizures, and even death, particularly in infants and people with weakened immune systems ( World...

California has declared a state of emergency in response to the rapid spread of bird flu (H5N1), marking a critical moment in managing this evolving outbreak. The virus, which primarily spreads among birds, has now crossed into cattle, raising serious concerns about its adaptability and potential risks to humans. This development comes on the heels of the first severe human case of H5N1 reported in Louisiana and new research indicating the virus may be mutating in ways that could increase its ability to infect humans. Read more on CNN . Colorized transmission electron micrograph of avian influenza A H5N1 virus particles (yellow/red) grown in Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) epithelial cells. Microscopy by CDC; repositioned and colorized by NIAID. Credit:   CDC and NIAID Louisiana’s Severe Case: A Warning Signal On December 18, 2024, the CDC confirmed the first severe human case of H5N1 in the United States. A Louisiana man was hospitalized after handling infected backyard poultry...