Human Metapneumovirus: Is the HMPV virus deadly? Know how it is tested and its preventive measures

The Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) virus is spreading very fast in China and is now slowly spreading in India as well. So far, a few cases of this virus have been reported in India. Amidst all this, China's Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has reported the mortality rate caused by the virus.

China's CDC said, "Children, populations with low immunity and the elderly are susceptible and are more likely to be infected with other respiratory viruses. HMPV often causes symptoms of the common cold, including cough, fever, nasal congestion and wheezing, but sometimes in severe cases, it can cause bronchitis and pneumonia."

Can it be the cause of death?

The CDC further said, "If a susceptible person is in a medical condition, then HMPV infection can cause death. Based on the data of an article published in Lancet Global Health in 2021, if children under the age of five have respiratory infections, there is a one percent chance that HMPV will cause death. Currently, there is no vaccine or effective medicine against HMPV and treatment is mostly to reduce symptoms.”

Which test is done to check for HMPV?

HMPV is usually tested based on the patient's symptoms and medical history. In this, a sample is taken from the nose or throat using a swab, which is exactly what was done during the coronavirus test. After collecting the sample, it is sent to the lab for testing.

Is the HMPV virus as dangerous as COVID?

This question is in the mind of almost every person whether this virus will also be as dangerous as COVID. According to experts, both COVID and HMPV viruses are respiratory. Still, HMPV is an old virus and cases of it have come before. It is not as dangerous as COVID.

How to prevent HMPV?

• Wear a mask in crowded and closed places.
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.
• Clean your hands regularly and wash them frequently with soap and water.
• Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough.
• Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose and mouth.

Statement of Health Ministry

A senior official of the Health Ministry said that the risk of pneumonia virus infection increases in the winter season and affects the elderly and children under five years of age more. According to him, cold and respiratory diseases caused by pneumonia virus infection are being monitored across the country at this time, but so far there are no signs of any sharp increase in it.

Generally, patients with cold and respiratory diseases have been coming in winter, and the same number is coming now. He said that there is no need to panic about this. Even in the case of infection with HMPVV, it is completely treatable.