HMPV Virus: Key Symptoms and How to Stay Safe

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been in the news lately because of a sharp increase in cases, which has both the public and medical experts concerned. This respiratory virus was first identified in 2001, although it has been quietly circulating for decades, producing respiratory diseases that are comparable to those brought on by RSV and influenza. 

Since the virus frequently remains misdiagnosed because its symptoms coincide with those of other respiratory disorders, the current increase in infection has brought attention to the need for increased awareness of the virus.

The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and parainfluenza virus are closely related to HMPV, which is a member of the Paramyxoviridae family. It mostly affects the upper and lower respiratory tracts, and it poses the greatest risk to immunocompromised people, older people, and newborns. 

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), pneumonia, or bronchiolitis can result from severe illnesses, although the majority of healthy people recover with very minor symptoms.

India Reports First Case Of HMPV Virus

The first instance in India has been reported recently, amidst the sudden rise in these cases in China. In Bengaluru, human metapneumovirus has been found in an 8-month-old infant. The Karnataka Health Department verified the matter, and findings indicate that the child had no prior travel history. In India, a distinct HMPV virus was found. It is unclear, nonetheless, if the strain of the virus discovered here and the one identified in China are connected.

How HMPV Spreads?

The highly infectious HMPV virus spreads via

• Respiratory droplets are released during a cough or sneeze by an infected individual.
• Direct interaction with an infected person.
• Touching the lips, eyes, or face after coming into contact with contaminated surfaces.
• Like other seasonal respiratory viruses, the virus tends to spread more actively in the late winter and early spring.

Symptoms of HMPV

HMPV symptoms are frequently similar to those of other respiratory diseases, such as RSV or the flu. Depending on age and overall wellness, they might range from little to severe. Common signs and symptoms include:

1. Runny or Stuffy Nose: Frequent discharge and congestion of the nose.
2. Cough: A productive or dry cough that may get worse with time.
3. Fever: Fever ranging from mild to severe is normal.
4. Sore Throat: Discomfort and irritation in the throat.
5. Wheezing: An airway blockage is indicated by a whistling sound made when breathing.
6. Shortness of Breath: Breathing difficulties, particularly under extreme situations.
7. Malaise and Fatigue: Constant exhaustion and overall weakness.
8. Pneumonia and bronchiolitis: Severe situations can result in lung infections that need medical attention.

HMPV can result in serious respiratory issues that may necessitate hospitalization for young children, elderly people, and those with compromised immune systems.

Prevention of HMPV

The goal of prevention is to lower the risk of infection and stop its spread because there isn’t a particular antiviral medication or vaccination for HMPV at this time:

1. Hand hygiene: Spend at least 20 seconds washing your hands with soap and water regularly.
2. Use Hand Sanitizer: In situations when soap is not accessible, alcohol-based sanitisers might be useful.
3. Avoid Close Contact: Stay away from those who show respiratory disease symptoms.
4. Respiratory Etiquette: When you sneeze or cough, cover your mouth and nose.
5. Disinfect Surfaces: Clean regularly handled items, such as tables, phones, and doorknobs.
6. Don’t Touch Your Face: Avoid using hands that are not clean to touch your mouth, nose, or eyes.
7. Stay at Home if Ill: To stop the virus from spreading, infected people should isolate themselves.
8. Strengthen Immunity: Keep up a healthy lifestyle by getting enough sleep, eating right, and exercising.

The present rise in HMPV cases has shown how important awareness and preventative actions are to stop its spread. Even though the majority of infections are minor, those at risk are nonetheless more likely to experience serious side effects. To manage the effects of HMPV, awareness, good hygiene, and emergency medical attention are essential. To safeguard both individual and public health, it is imperative to be aware and proactive in light of the growing global concern over respiratory viruses.