Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus of family pneumoviridae, whose members are commonly known to affect various animal species, causing upper and lower respiratory tract infections. It was first discovered in the Netherlands in 2001 and has drawn attention recently due to the rising number of cases being reported from China. Here’s all you need to know about the re-emerging disease.
The human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common respiratory virus that typically causes mild cold-like symptoms. Studies show it has circulated in human populations since the 1970s, though it was first identified by scientists in 2001. The virus accounts for 4-16% of acute respiratory infections globally, with cases usually peaking between November and May.
While most adults have developed immunity through previous exposure, HMPV can cause more severe symptoms in infants encountering it for the first time and in people with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms of HMPV
Similar to Common Cold, HMPV infection manifests as cough, fever, sore throat, nasal Congestion and shortness of breath in most cases. Severe infection resulting in bronchitis and pneumonia may necessitate hospitalization and oxygen therapy in about 10-11 percent of cases. Most people recover in 5-6 days.*
The infection is transmitted from person to person by
- Droplets from coughing or sneezing
- Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands
- Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes
Following groups are at higher risk of developing severe disease-
- Young children
- Elderly
- Immunocompromised
HMPV infection can cause flare ups in asthmatics and those with chronic pulmonary diseases.
Global Situation
The official report from China CDC highlights that while cases due to Acute Respiratory Illnesses in China are on a rise, numbers are still lower than the same period in the previous year. Most of the cases are due to Influenza, followed by Mycoplasma Pneumoniae which is a significant cause of hospitalizations. RSV and hMPV are more common among children upto 14 years.
No official concern or warning has been issued by WHO yet.
Situation in India
India has confirmed three cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) – two in Karnataka and one in Gujarat – health officials have been emphasisng that there is no need to panic as the it is not a new pathogen, adding that regular flu. ICMR confirmed two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in a 3 month old and an 8 month old infant, detected at Bengaluru Baptist Hospital, as part of ICMR’s ongoing monitoring of respiratory illnesses across the country. Both were admitted with the history of bronchopneumonia and are now recovering. None of the cases had a history of international travel.
Addressing the rising fears and chatter on social media over the virus that led to #lockdown trending, JP Nadda in a video message emphasised that the government is closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary steps to ensure public safety.
Do we need to worry?
HMPV is not a new virus. Cases of ARI due to HMPV are reported every year from China and the virus has been around for a few decades now. There is some level of immunity in the global population. Doctors all over have reassured that there is nothing to panic about and advised people to follow general precautions to stay safe in the winter season.
General precautions
COVID-19 pandemic has taught us a lot about staying safe. Following are some similar precautions that should be habitually followed at all times-
- Washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Avoiding touching the eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands
- Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
- Covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
- Cleaning frequently touched surfaces
- Staying at home when sick.
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