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The world population is already being frightened by the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China, which is reliving the pain of the Covid-19 pandemic. The mystery virus, which is currently prevalent in South Asia and is spreading to other regions of the world, has been reported to exhibit a number of hidden symptoms.
With the COVID wounds still raw, the news of the HMPV outbreak in China, from where the COVID outbreak emerged five years before, has put everyone in a state of panic. Parents, mostly, are highly concerned because the virus attacks kids more than any other section of the population. Distressed videos from China are also adding to the concerns of parents.
Children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals are more vulnerable to this virus and are more likely to develop severe complications due to this infection. According to researchers, HMPV causes approximately 10% to 12% of respiratory infections in children. The majority of cases are mild, only 5% to 16% of children will develop a lower respiratory tract infection, such as pneumonia. Let’s learn more about this virus and how to recognise this infection and protect our family from this.
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that generally infects the upper and lower respiratory tract. It is a prevalent cause of respiratory sickness in all age groups and has close resemblance to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). HMPV symptoms can range from minor cold-like symptoms such as cough, nasal congestion, and fever to more serious illnesses such as bronchitis or pneumonia. The virus spreads via respiratory droplets, direct contact with contaminated surfaces, or close contact with an infected person.
HMPV or the human metapneumovirus is a common virus, which was first detected in 2001, though certain evidence traces it back to 1958. It belongs to the Pneumoviridae family along with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Though this virus can infect throughout the year, the infection rate peaks during the winter season. It mostly spreads along with RSV and flu.
Experts say, fortunately, just 1% of people infected with respiratory viruses such as COVID, influenza, RSV, or HMPV may develop serious side effects like pneumonia. A 7–10 day upper respiratory tract infection is common with HMPV. However, the condition of 1% of patients might get worse and get hospitalized. Despite having different structures, HMPV and COVID both spread by contact with contaminated surfaces and droplet transmission. These viruses also have the same transmission route and can be prevented with the same measures.
Following are the common symptoms of HMPV infection:
Also, read: Common Viral Infections: Symptoms, Diagnosis, And Treatment
Following people are at high risk of contracting HMPV infection:
With the following preventive tips, you can save yourself and your family from HMPV infection:
HMPV is typically diagnosed by doctors based on your medical history and symptoms. They may take a sample from your throat or nose using a swab, which is a soft-tipped stick. The sample is examined in a lab for viruses and other diseases. Remember that unless you have severe symptoms, you are unlikely to get tested for HMPV. To check for abnormalities in your lungs' airways, your doctor might advise a bronchoscopy or chest X-ray in certain cases.
The widespread virus known as human metapneumovirus (HMPV) typically produces symptoms that resemble a cold. You have most likely experienced it at least once if you are older than five. You will usually recover at home in a few days. However, HMPV can occasionally result in major issues. Serious sickness is more likely to strike young children, persons over 65, and those with compromised immune systems. If you are worried about HMPV, speak with your doctor. If you or your kids are experiencing breathing difficulties or other symptoms of a serious illness, get medical help immediately.
Our Respiratory Viral Panel (Advance) test offers you comprehensive screening from 14-respiratory disease causing agents with single-test and only one-time sample collection.
For best care, you require an accurate and timely diagnosis. If you or any of your family members is experiencing symptoms of HMPV virus infection, get a Respiratory Viral Panel (Advance) test done at Dr. B. Lal Lab. Book your test now!
Q1: Is there a cure for HMPV?
A: Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) usually causes cold symptoms, but in susceptible people, it can cause serious respiratory disorders. There is no proven cure or vaccine.
Q2: What causes HMPV viral infection?
A: Through the mouth, nose, or eyes, HMPV enters the body. This usually happens after touching contaminated surfaces or after inhaling droplets from an infected person's cough, sneeze, or breath. They spread similarly to how the flu, common cold, and other respiratory viruses do.
Q3: What is the duration of an HMPV infection?
A: The majority of HMPV infections resolve on their own after only two to five days. Supportive and symptomatic care is advised as part of treatment to reduce symptoms.
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