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Mystery respiratory virus in Hyderabad: Know symptoms, prevention tips

The symptoms of this mystery virus encompass a runny nose, sore throat, dry cough, fever accompanied by body aches, and breathing difficulties.

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A new viral illness with acute symptoms resembling those of Swine Flu, influenza, and adenovirus is spreading in Hyderabad, affecting both children and adults with underlying health conditions. Despite extensive testing for Swine Flu, Covid-19, and Influenza yielding negative results, health experts emphasize that there is no need for alarm. The reason for this reassurance is that the recovery rate for this unidentified virus stands at 100%, and patients typically recover within five days, a standard duration for viral infections.

The symptoms of this mystery virus encompass a runny nose, sore throat, dry cough, fever accompanied by body aches, and breathing difficulties. Around 6-7 out of every 100 individuals have been affected by this virus, with children constituting 50% of the cases due to their less developed immune systems. The other 50% of patients are adults with pre-existing lung conditions such as COPD (commonly known as smoker's asthma), post-TB complications, Covid-19-related lung damage, and asthma, as noted by a health expert specializing in Pulmonology.

The symptoms initially manifest in the upper respiratory tract and later progress to affect the lower respiratory tract. Testing has been carried out for various viruses, including influenza A and B, swine flu (H1N1), avian flu (H3N2), and dengue. Notably, some of these tests have yielded false positive results, likely due to the structural similarities between the mystery virus and these viral families, according to the health expert.

Fortunately, early detection has enabled prompt treatment. Symptomatic management has been effective, with patients responding well. Those experiencing respiratory failure are treated with Oseltamivir, an antiviral medication, and have shown positive outcomes. In addition to treatment, patients are advised to maintain hydration, practice isolation until full recovery, and follow precautions such as covering the nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing, wearing N95 masks, practicing social distancing, regular sanitization, getting vaccinated against influenza, and promptly seeking medical attention.

Regarding the identity of this mystery virus, experts suspect it may belong to the Adeno, Corona, Influenza, or MERS families. To determine its exact nature, a multiplex PCR panel of tests is recommended, including Influenza A&B, H1N1, H3N2, and Covid RT-PCR, as suggested by the health expert.

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