Recent reports from China have highlighted a worrying increase in respiratory infections, with hospitals facing overcrowding and health systems under pressure. Viral videos from China have been circulating all over the internet, worrying people about yet another epidemic.
According to claims, this surge is attributed to HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus). While social media posts describe the situation as a crisis, neither Chinese authorities nor the World Health Organization (WHO) have declared a state of emergency. Experts note that the rise in infections coincides with the winter season, a time when respiratory illnesses naturally peak.
What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?
Discovered in 2001, Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is part of the Pneumoviridae family, which also includes respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This virus typically causes respiratory infections, with symptoms resembling those of a common cold or flu.
Symptoms of HMPV
HMPV often manifests with the following symptoms, as noted by the CDC:
Cough and runny or stuffy nose.
Fever and sore throat.
Wheezing or shortness of breath in severe cases.
In some cases, the infection can escalate to bronchitis, pneumonia, or trigger asthma exacerbations.
How HMPV spreads?
The virus spreads in the following ways:
Through droplets from coughing or sneezing.
Close contact, such as shaking hands or touching.
Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face (mouth, nose, or eyes).
HMPV exhibits a seasonal pattern, circulating in late winter and spring in temperate regions, as per the CDC.
Who is most at risk?
While HMPV can infect anyone, certain groups face a higher risk. The Cleveland Clinic highlights the following:
Children under 5 years old, especially infants.
Older adults, particularly those over 65.
Individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic respiratory conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Diagnosis and testing
Routine testing for HMPV is rare unless symptoms are severe or during an outbreak. The CDC outlines several diagnostic methods:
Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) to detect viral genetic material.
Immunofluorescence or enzyme immunoassays to identify viral antigens.
To reduce the risk of HMPV and other respiratory illnesses, the CDC recommends these preventative measures:
1. Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
2. Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
3. Wear masks in crowded places during outbreaks.
4. Stay home when sick to prevent spreading the virus.
5. Regularly clean frequently touched surfaces.
Treatment options
There is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV. Management primarily focuses on alleviating symptoms, as per the Cleveland Clinic:
1. Stay hydrated and rest.
2. Use over-the-counter (OTC) medications for pain, congestion, and fever.
3. Severe cases may require hospitalization for oxygen therapy or intravenous fluids.
Do we need to worry?
Although HMPV is contributing to a surge in respiratory infections, it is not a new virus and is not currently seen as a pandemic threat. Seasonal increases in infections are expected, particularly as populations re-expose themselves to various pathogens after Covid-19 lockdowns. Stay informed and adopt preventive measures can minimize the risk of severe illness.
