HMPV just like respiratory virus, no reason to panic, say experts

Two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) were reported in India today. Experts in the tricity shared that that it was like any other respiratory virus and there’s no cause for alarm.

PGI Prof Sanjay Jain, Dean (Research), and head, Department of Internal Medicine, shared, “HMPV is a respiratory virus that circulates during winter, often causing influenza-like symptoms such as cough, fever and sore throat. Though the virus affects all age groups, it is particularly concerning for young children and the elderly. Currently, there is no surge in influenza like cases or hospitalisations at the PGIMER. We encourage good hygiene practices, such as hand washing and wearing masks in crowded spaces. Medical facilities are adequate to effectively manage these kinds of respiratory illnesses.”

What is HMPV

• Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that causes upper and lower respiratory tract infections.
• Similar to other flu-like illnesses and primarily spreads during winter and early spring seasons.
• Not a new virus; has been recognised for decades, unlike COVID-19.

Symptoms

• Fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, nasal congestion and headache.
• In severe cases, it can lead to wheezing, difficulty in breathing and pneumonia.

Prevention

• Observe the same isolation methods that were followed during the time of Covid-19.
• Follow basic hygiene practices such as frequent hand washing, using hand sanitisers and wearing masks in crowded places.
• Avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals
• Practice cough and sneeze etiquette, and sanitise frequently touched surfaces.
• Seek medical advice for symptoms to reduce the risk of the spread.

About HMPV & Covid-19

• HMPV and COVID-19 are both respiratory viruses that spread through droplets and cause flu-like symptoms.
• However, HMPV is not a novel virus and has been recognised for decades, unlike COVID-19, which was newly detected.
• Unlike COVID-19, there is no specific vaccine or antiviral treatment for the HMPV. Its impact is typically seasonal rather than pandemic-level.

The HMPV usually causes mild symptoms like cough, fever and nasal congestion. These symptoms typically show nearly three to six days after exposure and often resemble those of the common cold or flu. However, it can lead to severe respiratory illnesses such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia, particularly in children under the age of five, the elderly, and people with underlying health conditions or comorbidities.

The HMPV spreads easily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or touches contaminated surfaces. It can both circulate locally and globally during flu seasons, meaning it can be transmitted within communities without any need for travel. The reason why both the infants, three months and eight months, who were reported HMPV positive, contracted the virus through close contact with infected individuals, such as family members or caregivers. They did not have any history of international travel.

Not just children, senior citizens too have to take precautions against the virus. The HMPV can affect the elderly, particularly those with weakened immune systems or pre-existing health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or kidney failure.

Dr Ravi Kant Behl, Senior Director, Department of Internal Medicine, Max Super Specialty Hospital, Mohali, clarified that the HMPV was not a new virus and was first detected in 2001. He said, “The cases reported in China involve seasonal respiratory infections, including HMPV, which circulate alongside other flu-like viruses. While China has reported a surge in respiratory illnesses, there is no indication that the situation poses a unique or heightened threat compared to seasonal trends observed globally.”