Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV): Covid-19 like Health Crisis Speculations in China 

After the COVID-19 pandemic, China is once again making headlines, this time due to a potential new viral outbreak. 

A respiratory virus called Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is reportedly causing a rise in infections in China.

Videos showing what appear to be overcrowded hospitals are spreading quickly across social media, fueling speculation of a new health crisis. 

Many posts suggest that China is facing another emergency similar to the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

However, there has been no official confirmation of a public health emergency in China. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also not issued an official warning or declared an emergency.

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What’s really going on in China?

Last week, China’s National Disease Control and Prevention Administration announced it was launching a monitoring system to track cases of pneumonia of unknown origin. 

According to an official statement released on 27 December, data showed an upward trend in overall infections in the third week of December.

“Recent cases detected include pathogens such as the rhinovirus and human metapneumovirus (HMPV), with cases of the human metapneumovirus among people under the age of 14 showing an upward trend, especially in northern provinces,” an official at a news conference said.

India’s Response to HMPV

National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is actively monitoring the rise in respiratory illnesses and seasonal influenza cases across the country.

NCDC confirmed that it will continue to monitor the situation closely, validate information, and provide timely updates as needed to ensure public health safety. 

What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that can cause upper and lower respiratory disease in people of all ages, but it’s especially risky for young children, older adults, and those with weak immune systems. 

HMPV was first discovered in 2001 and is in the Pneumoviridae family along with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). However, some serologic evidence suggests that the virus has been widespread since at least 1958.

HMPV infections can range from mild cold-like symptoms to more serious conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia.

What are Symptoms of HMPV?

Symptoms of HMPV typically include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. In some cases, the infection can lead to more serious conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia. 

Symptoms may appear usually between 3 to 6 days after the infection. 

How long the illness lasts can vary depending on how severe the infection is, but in general, the duration is similar to other viral respiratory infections.

Some people, particularly the elderly, those with weakened immune systems, or those with existing lung conditions (asthma or COPD), may be at higher risk of complications.

How does HMPV spread?

HMPV spreads from person to person or surface to person.

It can be passed on through coughing and sneezing. You may also get infection through close personal contact like shaking hands, hugging, or being near someone who has the virus. 

The virus can transfer to you through direct skin contact, especially if you then touch your face.

If an infected person touches objects like door handles, phones, or any shared surfaces, the virus can remain on those surfaces. If you touch these objects and then touch your mouth, nose, or eyes, the virus can enter your body and cause infection.

How is HMPV treated?

There is no specific medicine, vaccine, or antiviral treatment to treat HMPV. 

Instead, the focus is on supportive care. This means treating the symptoms to help the body heal on its own. Supportive treatment for HMPV depends on how severe the illness is. It involves managing symptoms to help the patient feel better while the body fights off the virus.

People with HMPV are encouraged to stay hydrated, which helps keep the body functioning properly. 

In severe cases, when the infection leads to breathing difficulties or other serious symptoms, you may need to be hospitalized for more intensive care. 

How to prevent HMPV?

There are several simple steps you can take to help prevent the spread of HMPV.

CDC suggests one of the most effective ways is to wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. You should also avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.

If you are feeling unwell, be sure to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze and stay at home. It’s a good idea not to share cups, or utensils, or engage in close contact while you’re sick.

In addition to these personal hygiene practices, make sure to clean shared surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and toys regularly. 

Is HMPV new Covid-19?

HMPV and COVID-19 have a lot in common, especially when it comes to the symptoms they cause and how they spread. Both viruses can lead to respiratory issues, which means they affect the lungs and breathing. Both viruses are spread in the same way—through respiratory droplets. 

One difference between the two is that HMPV tends to peak during the winter and spring months, which is when respiratory infections are more common due to colder weather.

On the other hand, COVID-19 can spread year-round because the virus continues to evolve into new variants that can affect people in all seasons.