Is the HMPV outbreak in China a novel virus? In what ways does it resemble COVID-19? Is there a vaccine? What we currently know

Human Metapneumovirus, or HMPV, is not a recently identified virus. It was initially identified in 2001, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Is India to be concerned? Is a vaccination available to stop the spread? Everything you need to know about HMPV is right here.

Global concern has been aroused by a Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China. India is among the many nations keeping a careful eye on the virus and its spread. But is it something to be concerned about? In what ways does this virus resemble the COVID-19 virus? What symptoms does it present with, and what have specialists said thus far? Does HMPV have a vaccine? This is all the information you require.

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV): What is it?
A common respiratory virus that causes upper and lower respiratory illnesses (like a cold) is called human metapneumovirus (HMPV). Like the flu and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), it is a seasonal illness that often manifests in the winter and early spring.

Is the HMPV virus new?
HMPV is not a brand-new virus. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it was initially identified in 2001. But according to an expert, there is some serologic evidence that the virus has been around since at least 1958. Like RSV, HMPV is a member of the Pneumoviridae family.

Does the HMPV virus resemble the COVID-19 virus?
Indeed. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is the infectious agent that causes coronavirus disease, also known as COVID-19. There are certain similarities between the SARS-CoV-2 and HMPV viruses:

1. People of all ages can get respiratory illnesses from both viruses. The most vulnerable groups are probably young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.

2. The symptoms are comparable as well. The following symptoms are frequently linked to HMPV: cough, fever, congestion of the nose, and dyspnea. Those infected with the COVID-19 virus also exhibit these symptoms.

3. The most common way for these viruses to transmit from an infected individual to others is through close personal contact and secretions from coughing and sneezing. Additionally, they can spread by coming into contact with infected objects or surfaces and then contacting the mouth, nose, or eyes.

4. According to Science Direct, COVID-19 seems to be seasonal and temperature-sensitive. According to the US CDC, HMPV also circulates in different annual seasons. While HMPV can be found all year long, infections in the US usually reach their peak between late winter and early spring.

Is there a vaccination to stop the spread of HMPV?
No. As of right now, there is no vaccine, and antiviral therapy is not advised. However, patients can take the following actions to help stop the transmission of respiratory viruses, including HMPV:

Hands should be often washed for at least 20 seconds with soap and water (see CDC's Clean Hands Save Lives!).

1. Refrain from using unwashed hands to contact your mouth, nose, or eyes.
2. Steer clear of intimate contact with sick people.
3. When coughing or sneezing, patients with cold-like symptoms should cover their mouth and nose.
4. Do not share dining utensils or glasses with other people.

Should India be concerned about the HMPV outbreak?
Dr. Atul Goel, the Director-General of Health Services, told the public that there is nothing to be frightened about in light of the HMPV outbreak in China. He advised everyone to use general prudence.

He said, "We have analysed the data of the respiratory outbreaks within the country, there is no such substantial increase in 2024 data." He added that respiratory illnesses are on the rise in the winter and that "our hospitals are fully prepared for that with the necessary supplies and beds."

"I would like to ask the public to take general measures, which include taking the regular medications given for fever and cold and avoiding contact with others to stop the spread of the illness. Otherwise, there's nothing concerning about the current state of affairs," Dr. Goel was cited by ANI as adding.

The CEO of Dr. Dangs Lab, Dr. Arjun Dang, cautioned that HMPV typically exhibits symptoms that are comparable to those of other respiratory viruses and that the healthcare system may be severely strained if the outbreak is not promptly contained. "Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing remains the gold standard for diagnosing HMPV." Dr. Dang emphasized this point.

Has China responded to India's action?
In addition to requesting that the World Health Organization (WHO) provide timely updates on the situation, the Ministry of Health stated that it is closely monitoring the situation in China through all available channels.

"Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season," stated Mao Ning, the spokesperson for China's foreign ministry, in a news release on Friday.

"Compared to the previous year, the diseases seem to be less severe and spread on a smaller scale," the representative stated. I can guarantee you that the health of Chinese nationals and visitors to China is a priority for the Chinese government. Traveling in China is safe.