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Pharmacies across China are bustling with shoppers seeking a "miracle" drug to alleviate their symptoms as cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) surge.
While the symptoms resemble those of the common cold or flu—such as cough, fever, and congestion—and are typically mild, certain patients, particularly young children or those with weakened immune systems, may face more severe symptoms. This is especially concerning as positive test rates among children aged 14 and younger are increasing in the region.
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A parent of a child who is unwell took to social media to express that the situation was "serious," while another parent detailed that their child was experiencing intense flu-like symptoms and had been suffering from a "high fever for several days."
Additionally, a video has surfaced suggesting that hospitals in China are experiencing overcrowding.
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As cases increase, pharmacies are reportedly raising prices on a medication called Xofluza, an antiviral with the main ingredient Baloxavir marboxil. It's been called a "miracle pill" when it comes to flu symptoms, per Qilu Evening Post.
A pharmacy staff member mentioned, "We're currently out of stock. The Baloxavir marboxil has been sold out since this morning. We'll have to wait for a restock tomorrow. The selling price is 227 yuan," which is approximately $30 USD.
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According to the Daily Star, another pharmacy worker in Zhengzhou city told a local news outlet: "Tamiflu used to be the go-to medicine but this Xofluza is imported goods so it's not cheap. We are selling it around 200yuan ($27 USD), we see a lot of people asking for this medication recently. Some of them said they travelled far to look for this."
The New York Post reported the Center for Disease Control is monitoring HMPV cases, but said the current number of cases in the U.S. is at "pre-pandemic" levels.
According to the CDC, the incubation period for HMPV is 3 to 6 days and the duration of the sickness depends on the severity.
The primary mode of transmission is through germs released during coughing and sneezing, as well as through interactions with others, like shaking hands, and by touching contaminated objects or surfaces before coming into contact with the mouth, nose, or eyes.
Patients can aid in preventing the transmission of illness by washing their hands thoroughly with soap and water, refraining from touching their eyes or mouth, covering their mouth or nose when sneezing, and staying at home when feeling unwell.
