The outbreak of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) has raised concerns around the world about its spread, mode of transmission and, most importantly, the symptoms seen in people infected with the virus.
The HMPV outbreak China is closely watched by several countries. The National Center for Disease Control (NCDC) under the Union Health Ministry is closely monitoring respiratory and seasonal flu cases in the country and is in touch with international agencies, ANI reported, official sources said.
According to the national media China Daily, HMPV is currently one of the most common viral infections among hospital visitors in China, and the rate of positivity for human metapneumovirus among children under the age of 14 is increasing.
HMPV cases usually occur in children and the elderly
HMPV, belonging to the Pneumoviridae, genus Metapneumovirus, is a single-stranded, enveloped, negative-sense RNA virus. It mainly causes upper respiratory tract infections – such as the common cold.
Symptoms of HMPV
Common symptoms of HMPV are cough, fever, nasal congestion, shortness of breath, and wheezing. Symptoms are similar to those seen in infections caused by other respiratory viruses.
In severe cases, it can lead to bronchitis and pneumonia.
According to a report published on the website of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2023 data on respiratory infectious diseases from 2009 to 2019, HMPV ranked eighth among eight viruses that cause acute respiratory infections, with a positive rate of 4.1 percent, which is much lower than the 28.5 percent of the flu virus.
How is HMPV spread?
HMPV is spread through the respiratory droplets of an infected person when he/she coughs or sneezes. Exposure to an environment contaminated with viruses can also cause transmission of the infection.
According to the Chinese Center for Disease Control, the immune defenses caused by HPV are too weak to stop re-infection. HMPV can be detected throughout the year, but detection rates are highest in winter and spring.
How to protect yourself from HMPV?
To protect yourself from HMPV, it is important to practice good hygiene and take preventive measures. HMPV is spread through the respiratory tract when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks, so it is very important to wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose and mouth, as this can lead to the virus. If you are unwell or have symptoms such as a cough, sore throat or fever, stay home to avoid spreading the virus to others. Wear a mask in crowded public places to reduce the risk of transmission. Regularly disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated, such as doorknobs, light switches, and smartphones. Keep a safe distance from people who are showing signs of illness.
It’s important to watch for any symptoms and get medical help if they get worse, especially for young children, the elderly, or people with weakened immune systems, who may be at greater risk of complications. By staying informed and following these precautions, you can reduce your risk of contracting and spreading HMPV.
HMPV facts
HMPV is the cause of about 20,000 hospitalizations among children under 5 years of age in the United States each year.
It has been around for at least 60 years and has been distributed worldwide as a common respiratory pathogen.
HMPV infection can be fatal in individuals with underlying medical conditions.
Currently, there is no vaccine against HMPV
