India, on January 6th reported the first case of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) after eight-month-old baby tested positive in Bengaluru, claimed reports. Since the symptoms of this virus are similar to that of Covid-19, it has stirred a wave a concern amongst citizens of India.
Many are seeking doctor’s opinions, scrolling websites and taking necessary precautions to understand the seriousness of this virus and how it can affect the people of India.
The HMPV virus is spreading rapidly in China, which is making people anxious. Numerous videos have surfaced on social media, asserting that hospitals are overflowing with patients afflicted with a variety of viruses, such as Mycoplasma pneumonia, COVID-19, influenza, and HMPV. China is playing down worries over the rise of HMPV cases. It was dubbed “annual seasonal reoccurrence” by Beijing.
“In the northern hemisphere, respiratory infections typically peak during the winter months,” stated Mao Ning, a spokesman for the Chinese foreign ministry.
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.
World Health Organisation has not yet declared an emergency. According to reports, the virus is not new and might not cause an epidemic like that of Covid-19 since HMPV is a known virus. However, officials have urged people to take good care of themselves and formal hygiene protocols in Public to be safe. Families with infants need to be more careful and need to take special care of their babies.
Director General of Health Services (DGHS) Dr Atul Goel told News18 that the Human Metapneumovirus is like any other respiratory virus which causes common cold, and it could cause flu-like symptoms in the young and the very old.
Does HMPV deeply infect infants? What are the symptoms?
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that can deeply infect infants, particularly those under the age of two. It is one of the leading causes of respiratory infections in young children and can lead to serious complications in some cases, especially in premature babies, those with weakened immune systems.
The symptoms of HMPV in infants are often similar to other respiratory infections, making it challenging to identify without proper testing. Common symptoms include:
Fever: A high temperature is a common sign of infection.
Cough: Persistent coughing, which may worsen over time.
Runny or Stuffy Nose: Nasal congestion is often observed.
Wheezing: Difficulty breathing, often accompanied by a whistling sound.
Difficulty Breathing: Labored or rapid breathing, which may indicate severe infection.
Irritability and Fatigue: Infants may appear more tired and fussy than usual.
Poor Feeding: Loss of appetite or difficulty in feeding due to congestion and breathing issues.
