Rising cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in northern China have sparked concerns about its potential to become a global health issue. However, health experts say there’s no need to worry and panic.
Here’s what you need to know about hMPV:
What is hMPV?
Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a respiratory virus that primarily affects the upper respiratory tract, causing mild, flu-like symptoms. In rare cases, it can lead to more serious illness, particularly in vulnerable individuals.
Unlike COVID-19, which is relatively new, hMPV has been around for decades, meaning most people may have some degree of immunity due to previous exposure.
Who is at Risk?
While anyone can get hMPV, some groups are more likely to develop severe respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis, bronchiolitis, or pneumonia:
• Children under 5 years old
• Elderly adults over 65 years old
• Immunocompromised individuals (people with HIV, cancer or autoimmune disorders, or those taking medications that suppress the immune system)
• People with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
What are the Common Signs and Symptoms?
• Cough
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body aches
• Headache
How Does it Spread?
• Close contact with an infected person’s respiratory secretions
• Touching contaminated objects or surfaces and then touching the eyes, nose or mouth
How to Prevent hMPV Infection?
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer
• Avoid close contact with sick individuals
• Don’t touch your face with unwashed hands
• Wear a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated areas
• Disinfect high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, shopping carts)
• Improve ventilation in indoor spaces
What to Do if You Get Infected?
Most HMPV infections resolve on their own within 2–5 days. Here’s how you can care for yourself and protect others during recovery:
• Get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids
• Manage symptoms as you would for a cold or flu
• Keep your distance from others to avoid spreading the virus
• Always cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
• Seek medical help if you experience severe symptoms like wheezing or trouble breathing
References:
• https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c23vjg7v7k0o
• https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/human-metapneumovirus-(hmpv)-infection#
• https://www.cdc.gov/human-metapneumovirus/about/index.html
• https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/human-metapneumovirus-hmpv/treatment-recovery