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

The outbreak of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China has raised alarm worldwide. Several countries, including India, are closely monitoring the virus and its spread. But should we worry about it? How is this virus similar to the new coronavirus? What are its symptoms? What are the experts saying 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 tract infections (such as the common cold). Like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza, it is a seasonal illness that usually occurs in winter or early spring.

Is HMPV a new virus?

HMPV is not a newly discovered virus. The disease was first discovered in 2001, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). But some serological evidence suggests the virus has been circulating since at least 1958, experts said. HMPV is classified, along with RSV, in the Pneumoviridae family.

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 several ways.

1. Both viruses cause respiratory illness in people of all ages. Young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are most likely to be 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 symptoms exhibited by people infected with the new coronavirus infection.

3. Both viruses are most likely to be spread from an infected person to others through secretions from coughing or sneezing and through close contact. It can also be spread by touching an object or surface that has the virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.

4. According to Science Direct, COVID-19 appears to be seasonal as it is sensitive to temperature. Similarly, HMPV circulates during distinct seasons of the year, the US CDC said. Although HMPV is detected year-round, infections typically peak in late winter and early spring in the United States.

Is there a vaccine to prevent the spread of HMPV?

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

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

HMPV outbreak: Should India be worried?

Amid concerns about the HMPV outbreak in China, Director General of Health Dr. Atul Goel has reassured the public that there is nothing to worry about regarding the current situation. He called on people to take common precautions.

“When we analyzed the data on the incidence of respiratory infections in the country, we did not see such a significant increase in the 2024 data,” he said. He also said that in the winter, there will be an outbreak of respiratory infections, and “our hospitals are fully prepared with the necessary supplies and beds.”

“I would like to ask the public to take general precautions. That is, if you have symptoms of a cough or cold, avoid contact with others to prevent the spread of the infection, and if you are not recommended to take the normal precautions prescribed for colds and fevers. You need to take the medicine.Otherwise, there is no need to do anything.”I feel alarmed by the current situation,” Dr. Goel said. Ani As you say.

Meanwhile, Dr Arjun Dang, CEO of Dr Dangs Lab, said HMPV usually presents with symptoms similar to other respiratory viruses and will place a huge burden on the healthcare system if the outbreak is not controlled quickly. He warned that there was a possibility that he would be exposed. Dr. Dang emphasized that “polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing remains the gold standard for HMPV diagnosis.”

India takes action, but has China responded?

The Ministry of Health said it is closely monitoring the situation in China through all available means and also asked the World Health Organization (WHO) to share timely updates on the situation.

“Respiratory infections tend to peak in winter,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said in a press statement on Friday.

public relations person said“Compared to previous years, the severity of the disease seems to be lower and the scale of the spread of infection is smaller. We can assure you that the Chinese government is concerned about the health of Chinese citizens and foreigners living in China. It is safe to travel to China. is.”