The biggest complication with HMPV is its symptoms, which may seem like a common flu or cold. But it can have long-term effects in the elderly with diabetes and heart disease. Therefore, it may be important to get tested.

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With the recent outbreak of human metapneumovirus (hMPV) in China, concerns continue to grow about the spread and potential long-term effects of this respiratory virus. hMPV, which is known to cause a variety of illnesses ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe pneumonia, has been circulating around the world for several years. However, the recent sudden increase in cases highlights the importance of understanding this virus and taking appropriate precautions. These steps are especially important for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immunity.

Why is it important to understand HMPV

HMPV belongs to the same viral family as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which spreads primarily through tiny water droplets released when we exhale. This makes the virus highly contagious, especially in crowded environments such as schools, workplaces, public transport, and hospitals. It is therefore important that everyone is aware of HMPV .

Rest is most important in mild symptoms

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) infection can cause a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild discomfort to serious health problems. Mild symptoms are often similar to those of the common cold, including a runny nose, persistent cough, fever, sore throat, and general muscle aches. These symptoms may resolve on their own with rest and basic care.

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common respiratory virus that causes upper and lower respiratory infections (such as colds). Image: AdobeStock

Difficulty in breathing, can be a serious symptom

However, in more severe cases, HMPV can cause serious respiratory problems. Symptoms such as wheezing, difficulty breathing and rapid breathing are common in these cases. Severe infections can also cause pneumonia or bronchiolitis, which causes inflammation of the small airways in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe.

These severe cases may require treatment, especially in young children, the elderly, or people with weakened immune systems.

Most people usually recover from HMPV without serious consequences, but the virus can sometimes cause long-term health problems, especially in vulnerable groups. Severe infection in children may increase the risk of asthma, recurrent wheezing and other permanent respiratory diseases later in life.

Its effect can be dangerous in the elderly

In the case of the elderly, HMPV can worsen pre-existing conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and heart failure, while weakening the immune system, making a person more susceptible to other infections. Immunocompromised individuals, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or patients with HIV/AIDS, are at higher risk of severe infections and complications.

Challenges in diagnosis and treatment

Symptoms are similar

One of the major challenges in managing HMPV is that its symptoms are similar to those of other respiratory viruses, such as RSV, influenza, and the common cold, making it difficult to diagnose it based on symptoms alone.

Diagnostic facilities are limited

The most reliable diagnostic method for HMPV is the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, which detects the genetics of the virus. However, in areas with limited healthcare infrastructure, including rural areas of India, access to these tests may be limited. This leads to underdiagnosis of cases.

There is no anti-viral available

Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment available for HMPV. Hence, treatment of the disease currently focuses on managing symptoms through supportive measures and preventing complications. Fever can be controlled with easily available medicines like paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce the discomfort of the patient.

Do not take the symptoms of HMPV lightly. Image: AdobeStock

Rest is the most important

It is important to maintain adequate hydration to prevent dehydration , especially for children and the elderly. Rest is also essential to allow the body to recover from the infection. In severe cases, hospitalization may also be necessary to provide oxygen therapy and other supportive treatments for complications such as difficulty breathing or pneumonia.

What can be done to prevent and control

Despite the lack of a specific vaccine targeting hMPV, several preventive strategies may help stop the spread of this virus, particularly in light of the ongoing outbreak in China:

Vaccination against other respiratory viruses:

Targeted vaccination against influenza and other common respiratory viruses can reduce the overall burden of respiratory diseases, and indirectly help limit the spread of hMPV.

Hand hygiene:

Regularly washing hands with soap and water, or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, is important to prevent HMPV transmission, especially in crowded environments.

Respiratory etiquette:

Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing and disposing of the tissue properly helps limit the spread of respiratory droplets.

Social distancing:

Avoiding close contact with sick individuals, especially in crowded places, can reduce the risk of infection.

Wearing a mask:

Wearing a well-fitting mask in crowded or poorly ventilated areas helps limit the spread of respiratory viruses, including HMPV. This measure, which has proven effective during the COVID-19 pandemic, will also prove useful during respiratory virus outbreaks.

Improving indoor air quality:

Ensuring proper ventilation in indoor spaces reduces the concentration of respiratory viruses in the air. Opening windows or using air filtration systems can improve indoor air quality and help prevent the spread of viruses.

What is the method of testing for HMPV?

First method 

RT-PCR, the most reliable method to test for HMPV, identifies the virus’s genetic material in respiratory samples such as a nose or throat swab. The cost of the test ranges from ₹3,000 to ₹8,000.

Second method

Other diagnostic options include rapid antigen tests and immunofluorescence tests (IFA), which detect the presence of viral proteins but are less sensitive than RT-PCR viral culture.

other options

Viral culture, though rarely used due to time constraints, can confirm infection. Serological testing identifies antibodies indicating past or recent infections. While comprehensive respiratory pathogen panels can diagnose many respiratory infections, including HMPV.

When and where to get tested

HMPV testing is recommended when a doctor suspects an infection, especially when respiratory illnesses are spreading or during an unexplained respiratory illness. Testing is usually recommended for high-risk groups such as infants, young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals, especially in cases of severe respiratory illness.

These tests are widely available in major hospitals, diagnostic laboratories and government healthcare centres across India.

The virus can cause acute kidney injury (AKI) in some patients. Image: AdobeStock

Treatment for HMPV

There is no specific antiviral treatment available for HMPV. Supportive care focuses on symptom management through medications such as fever reducers (such as paracetamol), hydration, rest, and bronchodilators for wheezing. Severe cases may require hospitalization for oxygen therapy, respiratory support, and close monitoring.

conclusion

The ongoing outbreak of HMPV in China has raised concerns about the spread of this respiratory virus and its potential to affect the global population. Given its potential to cause severe disease, particularly in vulnerable groups, it is essential for people to follow preventive measures, such as good hygiene practices, wearing masks, and proper ventilation.

Although there is no specific antiviral treatment available for HMPV, its impact can be greatly reduced by early detection, supportive care, and awareness about the virus.

As the world continues to face emerging respiratory threats, preventive strategies and public awareness will be critical to control the spread of HMPV and minimize its long-term impacts.