HMPV Risks and Key Differences With COVID-19

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Recently, India recorded 5 cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), the respiratory virus that was 1st isolated in the Netherlands in 2001. Though the virus is not new, it creates some significant health concerns, specifically for vulnerable populations.

Unlike COVID-19, which emerged in 2019, the virus has been circulating since the 1970s but was identified officially in the early 2000s.

HMPV is said to cause some cold-like symptoms (mild) but, in some rare cases, could lead to severe respiratory illnesses, in the case of immunocompromised individuals, the elderly, infants, and those with chronic conditions particularly. Cases of reinfection are also common in individuals throughout their lives. However, the subsequent infections are usually mild. All children are almost exposed to the virus by the age of 5, and the major peak in the cases is seen between May and November in the Northern Hemisphere, while in the South, it’s between June and July.

HMPV Symptoms, Spread & Risk Factors

HMPV, it spreads via respiratory droplets like sneezing, coughing or even contact with the infected secretion. It is similar to other respiratory illnesses.

The symptoms of HMPV include 5-7 days lasting mild flu-like signs. However, in severe cases, children under the age of 6 can even have a high fever, wheezing and respiratory distress. Hospitalization is needed for 3-10% of the impacted kids. Some might require mechanical ventilation or oxygen therapy for acute conditions like pneumonia and bronchiolitis.

The vulnerable populations to HMPV are,

Children and Infants under 2 years.
People with a weak immune system.
Elderly individuals.
Ones with chronic medical conditions.

HMPV vs Covid-19: Differences

While both COVID-19 and HMPV have similar transmission modes, i.e., respiratory droplets, their impact varies.

COVID-19 has broad symptoms and a high potential for some severe systemic complications in comparison to mild and localized HMPV impact.
Covid-19 spreads much more easily. To date, it has caused widespread global outbreaks, unlike the HMPV, which is less transmissible.

HMPV Prevention, Diagnosis & Treatment

HMPV symptoms can resemble those of other respiratory viruses like influenza or RSV. It makes the diagnosis challenging. Nasopharyngeal secretions PCR testing is the gold standard for confirmation. There isn’t a specific HMPV antiviral treatment. The care is supportive and involves antihistamines, antipyretics, and, in some severe cases, ventilation or oxygen therapy.

Some preventive measures for HMPV are,

Wash hands regularly with soap for at least 30 seconds.
Covering nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.
Wearing masks in crowded spaces.
Avoiding any close contact with the infected individuals.
To regularly disinfect the commonly touched surfaces.

While HMPV might seem less severe than the COVID-19 cases, it is a health risk, specifically for vulnerable groups. This is why it’s essential to be aware of and use preventive measures to control the spread.