HMPV cases increase in China: What is HMPV & what are its symptoms?

China reported a rise in respiratory infections, with health experts suspecting the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) as the culprit. Despite the reports, neither Chinese authorities nor the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared an emergency.

This increase in infections coincides with winter, when respiratory illnesses peak. The HMPV virus, along with influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and COVID-19, is spreading rapidly. Health experts are monitoring the situation to understand the causes behind this surge.

What is HMPV, Symptoms and Risks?

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), discovered in 2001, is a member of the Pneumoviridae family, which includes respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). According to theU.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HMPV can cause respiratory diseases in people of all ages, but the elderly, young children, and those with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable. Symptoms are similar to the common cold or flu, such as cough, fever, runny nose, and sore throat. In severe cases, it can cause wheezing, shortness of breath, bronchitis, pneumonia, or asthma flare-ups.

HMPV symptoms include coughing, nasal congestion, fever, and sore throat. Severe cases can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia. Children under five, especially infants, older adults (over 65), and people with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD, are at the highest risk for severe illness.

Like many respiratory viruses, HMPV spreads through droplets from coughing or sneezing. It can also spread through close contact, like shaking hands or touching contaminated surfaces and then the face. HMPV usually circulates during winter and spring, and the current rise in infections aligns with this pattern.

Preventing HMPV spread

There is no specific vaccine or antiviral treatment for HMPV, but the CDC suggests preventive measures to reduce virus spread. These include:

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

• Avoid touching the face with unwashed hands.

• Wearing masks in crowded areas during outbreaks.

• Staying home when sick to prevent the spreading of the virus.

• Regularly cleaning frequently touched surfaces.

These measures are similar to those for other respiratory illnesses like the flu or COVID-19 and are crucial in reducing infection risk.

Diagnosis and treatment

HMPV infection can be diagnosed through nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT) or immunoassays to detect viral antigens in respiratory secretions. There is no antiviral treatment for HMPV, but healthcare providers may offer supportive care to manage symptoms. In severe cases, medical attention is necessary, especially for those with underlying health conditions.

The recent surge in HMPV infections in China has raised concerns as the virus spreads alongside other respiratory viruses. Andrew Easton, a virology professor at the University of Warwick, emphasised the importance of investigating changes in infection incidence. While the risk of HMPV hasn’t changed since its discovery, Easton stressed the need for further investigation into the cause of the rise in cases.

Chinese authorities have noted an increase in HMPV infections among children aged 14 and under, but the cause is unclear. It’s uncertain whether this rise is due to behavioural changes or a possible change in the virus itself. However, health experts suggest that genetic mutations in the virus are unlikely.

Global impact

While HMPV is a serious concern for vulnerable populations like young children and the elderly, experts do not believe there's an immediate global threat. The situation in China is being monitored, but the overall spread of respiratory infections this winter is lower than in previous years. It's essential to continue observing the virus's behaviour and impact on different populations to assess emerging risks.

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a prominent respiratory infection in China, with rising cases primarily affecting children. Although similar to the common cold and flu, it can lead to severe complications in vulnerable groups. No specific vaccine or antiviral treatment is available, but preventive measures like hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and wearing masks are essential to controlling its spread.

Health authorities are investigating the recent surge in cases, and the global impact remains under observation. Individuals are encouraged to practice good hygiene and take precautions against respiratory infections.

Support us to keep independent environmental journalism alive in India.

Keep Reading

Watch: Kashmir experiences first snowfall of season after dry spell

Amarnath Yatra: Tackling rising death toll from extreme weather events

Tourists arrival in Kashmir break records, a need to regulate it?

From tourist paradise to waste wasteland: Sindh River Cry for help

Follow Ground Report on X, Instagram and Facebook for environmental and underreported stories from the margins. Give us feedback on our email id [email protected]. 

Don't forget to Subscribe to our weekly newsletter, Join our community on WhatsApp, and Follow our YouTube Channel for video stories.