HMPV Outbreak: The Hidden Virus Threatening Your Winter

Nothing to be alarmed: Centre on HMPV outbreak in China

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that causes infections similar to the common cold. It primarily affects the upper respiratory tract and can lead to more severe illnesses in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms of HMPV

The symptoms of HMPV are akin to other flu-like illnesses and may include:

• Coughing
• Fever
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Sore throat
• Shortness of breath

In severe cases, especially among vulnerable populations, it can lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia.

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that can cause cough, fever, and nasal congestion, like the common cold, and in severe cases bronchiolitis or pneumonia (especially in children and older adults).

Current Situation in China

Late December 2024: In anticipation of increased respiratory disease activity during winter, China’s National Disease Control and Prevention Administration announced the implementation of a pilot monitoring system to detect pneumonia of unknown origin. This shift is intended to put guidelines in place to address novel pathogens, to reach a higher readiness level than before COVID-19 emerged five years ago.

The aggregate data show a rise in acute respiratory infections, including HMPV cases, notably in those aged less than 14 years of age among northern provinces. Health experts recommend reserving the use of antiviral drugs for HMPV to patients at high risk for severe disease, because there is no available vaccine, and symptoms are generally similar to that of the common cold.

India’s Stance on HMPV

While HMPV cases have been reported in China, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is closely monitoring respiratory, and seasonal influenza cases in the country and are in touch with international agencies, it said.

There has not been any significant rise in respiratory outbreaks in the country so far in December 2024 and no big numbers of cases from any institutions in this regard, said Dr Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services. He stressed that there is no reason to panic and that hospitals are equipped to treat respiratory viruses that are common in the winter months.

Preventive Measures

Preventive Measure	Description
Be Diligent About Hygiene	Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to reduce virus transmission.
Practice Respiratory Safety	Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing to limit droplet spread.
Limit Contact	Avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms of respiratory infections.
Avoid Office Attendance When Ill	Stay home if you exhibit symptoms to prevent spreading the virus to coworkers.

 

How to Avoid HMPV: A Step-by-Step Guide

Preventive Measure	Description
Practicing Handwashing	Wash hands regularly with soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching contaminated surfaces.
Hand Sanitizer	Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer (minimum 60% alcohol) when soap and water are unavailable.
Do Not Touch Faces	Avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands to prevent the virus from entering the body.
Clean Surfaces	Frequently clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and mobile devices.
Avoid Close Contact	Stay away from individuals who are ill and avoid crowded areas during peak respiratory illness periods.
Wear Masks If Needed	Use a mask in situations where maintaining physical distance is challenging to reduce droplet spread.

• Consult your doctor with severe symptoms, or being in a high-risk group (young children, the elderly, or people with compromised immune systems).

Following these preventive steps may help to prevent the spread of HMPV and other respiratory viruses.

How to Shield Yourself from HMPV

To lower the chance of getting HMPV:

• Practice Good Hand Hygiene
• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

Cleveland Clinic

• Keep Your Distance from People Who Are Sick
• Avoid close contact with anyone with respiratory symptoms.
• Do not share personal items such as utensils, towels or cups with other people.

Follow Proper Respiratory Etiquette

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or with your bent elbow when you cough or sneeze.
• Dispose of used tissues immediately and wash your hands afterwards.

Disinfect Surfaces That May Be Contaminated

• “Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects” and “surfaces,” like doorknobs, light switches and phones.

Stay Home When Sick

• If you have symptoms of a respiratory infection: stay home to avoid spreading the virus to others.

Wear Personal Protective Equipment if Needed

• In circumstances that make physical distancing difficult, wear a mask to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets.

Taking these preventive steps can help safeguard yourself and others from HMPV as well as other respiratory viruses.