Context: Recently, five cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection were reported in India, following an outbreak of this globally recognized respiratory virus in China.
About HMPV
- It is a viral pathogen that causes respiratory infections across all age groups.
- It was discovered in 2001, belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family and is related to RSV.
- It spreads through respiratory droplets, contaminated surfaces, and direct contact.
- It causes mild to severe respiratory illness, particularly in infants, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals.
- It peaks in late winter and early spring in temperate regions but circulates year-round in some areas.
Symptoms of HMPV
- HMPV symptoms vary by age and health. Mild cases include runny nose, sore throat, cough, and fever, while moderate cases may involve persistent cough, wheezing, and fatigue.
- Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) requiring hospitalization may also occur.
Transmission and Prevention
- HMPV spreads similarly to other respiratory viruses like Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and influenza, primarily through respiratory droplets or contact with contaminated surfaces.
- To prevent transmission, practicing good hand hygiene, including frequent handwashing with soap and water, is essential.
- To prevent HMPV, practice respiratory etiquette by covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, wearing a mask, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.
- Mild cases of human HMPV usually last a few days to a week. In severe cases, it will probably take longer to feel better. However, lingering symptoms, like a cough, may take longer to go away
Diagnosis of HMPV
- Diagnosing HMPV is challenging due to symptoms similar to RSV and influenza.
- Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) is the gold standard, while antigen assays provide quicker results.
- In India, surveillance programs like the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) test for HMPV to monitor respiratory illnesses.
Treatment of HMPV
- No specific antiviral or vaccine for HMPV.
- Treatment is supportive: rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications for mild cases.
- Severe cases may require oxygen therapy, hospitalization, or mechanical ventilation.
- Ongoing research on therapies and vaccines.
- Prevention and early intervention are essential.
Global and National Monitoring
- HMPV is not a new pathogen, with cases reported globally. In India, ICMR and IDSP monitor respiratory illness trends, including HMPV, alongside influenza and RSV.
- The government emphasizes strong health infrastructure and surveillance to detect emerging threats.
Similarities and Differences between HMPV and COVID-19:
| Aspect | HMPV | COVID-19 |
| Virus | HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) | SARS-CoV-2 (Coronavirus) |
| Transmission | Respiratory droplets, direct contact, contaminated surfaces | Respiratory droplets, direct contact, contaminated surfaces |
| Symptoms | Cough, fever, shortness of breath, fatigue | Cough, fever, shortness of breath, loss of taste/smell, systemic complications |
| Vulnerable Populations | Infants, older adults, immunocompromised individuals | Infants, older adults, immunocompromised individuals |
| Treatment | Supportive care (no specific antiviral or vaccine) | Vaccines and antiviral treatments available |
| Public Health Impact | Regional outbreaks, lower systemic complications | Global pandemic, higher systemic complications |