What is HMPV virus, spreading in China like Covid 19? Should India be concerned? Symptoms to precautions, 5 key points

India has issued a statement about the cases of HMPV in China? While there are parallels being drawn with Covid-19, here are key updates about the virus.

The virus spreading fast in China raised an alarm across the globe. It is a respiratory issue diagnosed as human metapneumovirus (HMPV) and is being compared with coronavirus. The news about rising HMPV cases in China was brought to light via several social media videos that surfaced on X (Formerly Twitter) and other platforms. This stirred a situation of panic raising concerns about another looming epidemic. The virus is reportedly spreading fast with symptoms similar to Covid-19. But is it the same? Should Indians be concerned?

What HMPV Spreading China? Is it Similar to Covid 19?

HMPV, human metapneumovirus, is a respiratory illness that causes infection in upper and lower respiratory tracts. This is termed as a seasonal disease and is pretty similar to common cold and flu. HMPV is not new like Covid-19. It was first discovered in USA in 2001 as per Centres For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Speaking of SARS-CoV-2, it does have certain similarities:

• Both are respiratory virus that can affect people of all age groups especially – kids, elderly, people with weakened immunity.
• HMPV and Covid-19 are contagious and can spread via droplets, contact, touching infected person or object.
• Few symptoms of HMPV and Covid-19 are similar too- high fever, cold, cough, sneezing, shortness of breath etc.

Other symptoms of HMPV are nasal congestion, fatigue. This may further progress to pneumonia or bronchitis too as per CDC. However, there is no vaccine for curing HMPV completely.

Seasonal allergies and respiratory issues tend to exacerbate during cold weather. Indian doctors have said that there is no need to panic yet.

China HMPV Virus Outbreak – 5 Key Updates

1. After alarming videos and posts surfaced internet about rising cases of HMPV in China, Beijing issued a press statement to address. China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Friday that “Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season”. I can assure you that the Chinese government cares about the health of Chinese citizens and foreigners coming to China”, adding that “It is safe to travel in China”.
2. Kerala and Telangana governments on Saturday said that they were closely monitoring the news reports about the massive outbreak of viral fever and respiratory infection in China and said there is no need to panic as of now.
3. A Joint Monitoring Group (JMG) meeting was held under the Chairmanship of the Directorate General of Health Services. “The government is keeping a close watch over the situation through all available channels and WHO has also been requested to share timely updates regarding the situation in China,” the Ministry said in a statement.
4. Dr Atul Goel, Director-General of Health Services said, “We have analysed the data of the respiratory outbreaks within the country, there is no such substantial increase in 2024 data.” He further mentioned that during winter, there is an outbreak of respiratory infections and there is nothing unusual about it. “I want to request the public to take general precautions, which means, those who have cough and cold should prevent coming in contact with other people to prevent the spread and take normal medicines prescribed for cold and fever… Otherwise, nothing to be alarmed about the present situation,” Dr Goel was quoted by ANI.
5. An official source in Kerala said that the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is closely monitoring respiratory and seasonal influenza cases in the country, and is in touch with international agencies in the wake of the recent reports of an outbreak of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China.

Symptoms and Precautions for HMPV

• Cough
• High Fever
• Nasal congestion
• Shortness of breath
• Bronchitis or pneumonia in severe cases may develop.

Preventive Tips

• Wash hands often with soap and water.
• Eat immunity boosting diet
• Avoid touching eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Patients with cold like symptoms should cover their mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing.
• Mask up when going to crowded areas.

Taking precautions can lower risk of developing seasonal allergies and illness.