China is witnessing another outbreak of a pathogenic virus after COVID-19, as cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) are on the rise. Social media footage has shown overcrowded hospitals, suggesting a surge in multiple viral infections, including HMPV, influenza A, COVID-19, and Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
What is HMPV? Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common cause of respiratory infections, particularly affecting children and the elderly. It causes both upper and lower respiratory tract infections and shares symptoms with the flu. Individuals with weaker immune systems, such as children under 5 and adults over 65, are at higher risk of developing serious complications like pneumonia or asthma.
First identified by Dutch scientists in 2001, HMPV has been circulating among humans for over 50 years. The virus belongs to the Metapneumovirus genus, part of the Pneumovirus subfamily, and is the only species in this genus that infects humans.
Human metapneumovirus (Image: Wikipedia)
How Dangerous is HMPV? HMPV has an incubation period of 3 to 5 days, with immunity not preventing future infections. The virus is present year-round but peaks in winter and spring. In individuals with underlying health conditions, HMPV can lead to life-threatening complications. A study published in *The Lancet Global Health* in 2021 reported that HMPV was responsible for fatalities in 1% of children under five with acute lower respiratory infections.
Who is Most at Risk? HMPV primarily impacts children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Symptoms include coughing, fever, nasal congestion, and wheezing. Severe infections can lead to bronchitis, pneumonia, and other respiratory complications. Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as chemotherapy patients or organ transplant recipients, are particularly vulnerable.
Causes of HMPV
HMPV spreads through close contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces, similar to other respiratory viruses. It is transmitted through droplets, saliva, phlegm, and aerosols. The virus is more prevalent during colder months, thriving in winter and early spring.
Representational image: Collected from Facebook
Signs and Symptoms of HMPV For many young adults aged 5 to 40, HMPV may not present symptoms or only cause mild issues. However, children and the elderly are more likely to experience severe symptoms, such as:
Milder symptoms generally resolve in 2 to 5 days. However, if symptoms persist for over two weeks or worsen, medical attention is recommended.
Regional and Global Implications While reports on social media highlight overwhelmed hospitals, official sources state that the situation is under control. The World Health Organization (WHO) encourages transparent data-sharing, while Chinese authorities defend their handling of the surge.
In Bangladesh, HMPV was first noted in a 2001 study, which found that 33.3% of children under 13 were affected. However, health authorities like the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) and the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control, and Research (IEDCR) have not issued recent updates on the virus.
How to Prevent HMPV Currently, there is no vaccine for HMPV. To reduce the risk of infection, people should adopt preventive practices such as:
- Maintaining physical distance from infected individuals - Washing hands regularly before eating or touching the face - Wearing masks and gloves when outside - Covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing - Sanitizing hands and surfaces after sneezing or coughing - Avoiding contact with public surfaces like handrails and door handles without cleaning hands afterward - Bathing and washing clothes after extended time outside
Diagnosis and Treatment of HMPV Diagnosis can be done through various tests, including blood culture, nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT), antigen detection, and serologic testing. The NAAT test is most commonly used for diagnosing HMPV.
While there is no specific antiviral treatment for HMPV, doctors may prescribe medications to relieve symptoms. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen, inhalers for respiratory symptoms, and nasal decongestants can help alleviate discomfort.
Cautions HMPV shares symptoms with other respiratory infections, making it difficult to distinguish without lab tests. Many individuals mistakenly take antibiotics, which are ineffective against viruses like HMPV. Misuse of antibiotics can damage the immune system, so medical consultation is essential.
Conclusion While HMPV infections are currently a concern in China and may affect regions globally, preventive measures should be taken, especially to protect vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.
