HMPV virus cases rising across the world: Symptoms, treatment, diagnosis and everything else you should know

A Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China has sparked global concern, prompting countries like India to closely monitor the virus and its transmission. Malaysia has also been experiencing a notable increase in HMPV cases. On Saturday, the Indian Health Ministry held a meeting to review the growing number of cases. However, authorities maintain that there is currently no reason for alarm.

China is currently facing an outbreak of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) and videos on social media purportedly show congested hospitals and overburdened healthcare systems. Health experts have raised concerns over HMPV, a respiratory virus in other parts of the region afflicting a number of Asian countries.

Meanwhile, China has downplayed the outbreak of flu and said that the country is safe to travel. India’s health ministry has re-assured there is no cause for alarm regarding Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) reports from China and they are monitoring the situation.

What is HMPV virus seeing surge in China?

Identified in 2001, Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is part of the Pneumoviridae family, which also includes respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), as noted by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The virus commonly causes upper and lower respiratory infections, with symptoms resembling those of a cold or flu.

HMPV can infect individuals of all ages, though it poses a higher risk to young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems, according to the CDC.

HMPV Virus Symptoms

According to the CDC, common symptoms of HMPV include coughing, a runny or congested nose, fever, sore throat, and in severe instances, wheezing or difficulty breathing. In certain cases, the infection may progress to conditions such as bronchitis, pneumonia, or worsening of asthma.

Who is at risk?

Children under five years old, especially infants, older adults, particularly those over 65 and individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD are at higher risk.

How does HMPV spread?

HMPV is transmitted through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, close contact like handshakes or touching, and contact with contaminated surfaces followed by touching the mouth, nose, or eyes. According to the CDC, the virus follows a seasonal pattern, typically circulating during late winter and spring in temperate areas.

Treatment options

There is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV. As per the Cleveland Clinic, management focuses on alleviating symptoms:

-Stay hydrated and take proper rest

-Use over-the-counter (OTC) medications for pain, congestion, and fever.

-Severe cases may require hospitalisation for oxygen therapy or intravenous fluids