HMPV outbreak in China: is it a new virus? How is this similar to Covid-19? Is there a vaccine? What we know so far

An outbreak of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China has raised global alarm. Several countries, including India, are closely monitoring the virus and its spread. But should we be worried? How is this virus similar to the COVID-19 virus? What are its symptoms and what have the experts said so far? Is there a vaccine against HMPV? Here’s everything you need to know.

What is human metapneumovirus (HMPV)?

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common respiratory virus that causes lower and upper respiratory infections (like the common cold). It is a seasonal illness that usually occurs in winter and early spring, similar to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza.

Is HMPV a new virus?

HMPV is not a recently discovered virus. It was first discovered in 2001, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said. However, some serological evidence suggests the virus has been widespread since at least 1958, one expert said. HMPV belongs to the Pneumoviridae family along with RSV.

Is HMPV similar to the COVID-19 virus?

Yes. Coronavirus disease or COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The HMPV virus and the SARS-CoV-2 virus are similar in some ways:

1. Both viruses cause respiratory illnesses in people of all ages. Young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are likely to be most at risk.

2. The symptoms are also similar. Symptoms commonly associated with HMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. These are also the symptoms exhibited by people infected with the COVID-19 virus.

3. Both viruses are most likely spread from an infected person to others through secretions from coughs and sneezes and close personal contact. They are also spread by touching objects or surfaces that have the viruses on them and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.

4. According to Science Direct, COVID-19 appears to be temperature sensitive and, therefore, seasonal. Similarly, HMPV circulates in distinct annual seasons, the US CDC said. Although HMPV can be detected throughout the year, infections typically peak in the United States between late winter and early spring.

Is there a vaccine to prevent the spread of HMPV?

No. There is currently no vaccine and antiviral treatment is not recommended. But patients can help prevent the spread of HMPV and other respiratory viruses by following these steps:

1. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (see the CDC’s Clean Hands Save Lives!)
2. Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
3. Avoid close contact with sick people.
4. Patients who experience cold-like symptoms should cover their mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing.
5. Avoid sharing cups and cooking utensils with others.

HMPV outbreak: should India be worried?

Amid concerns over the HMPV outbreak in China, Dr Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services, reassured the public that there was no reason to worry about the current situation. He urged people to take general precautions.

He said: “We have analyzed the data on respiratory outbreaks in the country, there is no such substantial increase in the 2024 data.” He further mentioned that in winter there was an outbreak of respiratory infections and “our hospitals are fully prepared for this with the necessary supplies and beds.”

“I want to request the public to take general precautions i.e. those suffering from cough and cold should avoid coming into contact with other people to prevent spread and take normal prescribed medicines against cold and fever…Otherwise, there is nothing to be done alarmed by the current situation,” said Dr Goel. ANI as said.

Meanwhile, Dr. Arjun Dang, CEO of Dr. Dangs Lab, warned that HMPV usually has symptoms similar to other respiratory viruses and if the outbreak is not quickly controlled, it can severely strains the health system. Dr. Dang emphasized that “the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test remains the gold standard for HMPV diagnosis.”

India takes action, has China reacted?

The Health Ministry said it is closely monitoring the situation in China through all available channels and has also requested the World Health Organization (WHO) to share timely updates regarding the situation.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said in a press release Friday that “respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season.”

The spokesperson said: “Diseases appear to be less severe and spreading on a smaller scale compared to the previous year. I can assure you that the Chinese government cares about the health of Chinese citizens and foreigners in China. China.”