HMPV Virus: Everything You Need to Know

Posted on: Jan 13, 2025 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

HMPV Virus: Everything You Need to Know

Lockdown, work from home, binge-watching on OTT platforms…will all these things return? Well, if you are on social media, there is a meme fest going on. However, if you remember the horrors of the COVID-19 pandemic, you would know that the situation can get pretty serious anytime. Therefore, the resurgence of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is making everyone sit up and take notice, even if the virus has been around for the last five decades. This common respiratory virus is sparking worries of another pandemic. But one wonders if we are taking it lightly and repeating the same mistake we made four years back. Well, to keep rumours and misinformation away, here is everything you need to know about HMPV.

What is HMPV?

HMPV is a virus that causes symptoms similar to the common cold, fever, and nasal congestion. It can also cause infections like pneumonia and asthma flare-ups or lead to the worsening of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is more common in the winter. In fact, most people get HMPV during their childhood. It was first identified in the Netherlands in 2001. The virus can spread through direct contact between people or when someone brushes surfaces contaminated with it. Young children and those with weakened immune systems are most vulnerable to it.

How is HMPV Spread?

Now that you know what is HMPV virus, let’s also understand how HMPV virus is transmitted. The transmission is primarily through direct contact with the infected person or surfaces. The modes of transmission, similar to those of flu and common cold, are:

• Respiratory droplets

If you inhale the respiratory droplets released by an infected person when he talks, coughs, or sneezes.

• Close contact

Touching or shaking hands with the person who has the virus and then touching your own mouth, nose, or eyes.

• Contaminated objects or surfaces

The virus can survive for several hours on surfaces like doorknobs, keyboards, phones, or tables. Touching your eyes, nose, or mouth after touching the contaminated surfaces can spread the infection.

The incubation period of the virus is between 3-5 days, but this can vary. During this period, the infected person can be contagious without showing any symptoms.

Why are HMPV Cases Rising in China?

China has been experiencing a spike in HMPV cases, particularly among children aged 14 and below. Experts attribute the increase to cold weather conditions because HMPV, like many respiratory infections, is more prevalent and active during winter. Cold temperatures are conducive to the virus's growth. People tend to spend more time indoors due to low temperatures, which increases the risk of virus transmission, particularly in crowded and poorly ventilated spaces.

The rising cases in northern China coincide with the normal seasonal changes during winter, which are expected to continue until March. In addition to China, many countries in the northern hemisphere have also seen a surge in HMPV cases.

Is HMPV Similar to COVID-19?

Both HMPV and COVID-19 are infectious respiratory illnesses, but they are not similar. COVID-19 was a pandemic, and typically, pandemics are caused by novel pathogens. HMPV was first discovered in 2001 by a group of Dutch scientists and has been around for decades. Hence, we have developed some degree of immunity because of our exposure to the virus over time.

HMPV is a seasonal virus seen in winter and spring, while COVID-19 can occur throughout the year due to the development of new variants.

The symptoms of HMPV are mostly mild, similar to common cold and flu and people recover within 7-10 days. Though the virus spreads easily, it is not as deadly as COVID-19 and has a very low mortality rate. In some cases, especially among the elderly, people with underlying medical conditions and weak immunity, HMPV can lead to serious complications like pneumonia and bronchitis.

How to Prevent HMPV?

Though HMPV is not a cause for alarm as of now, experts still recommend precautionary measures to keep the virus at bay. Some of the ways to protect yourself from the virus are:

• Practice hand hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water (for at least 20 seconds) or with alcohol-based hand sanitisers.

• Avoid close contact with infected persons.

• Cover your mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.

• Regularly disinfect contaminated or frequently touched surfaces and objects.

• Wear masks in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, especially in places where there is a spike in HMPV.

• Maintain social distancing, particularly from those who are sick.

• Isolate yourself when sick or if you experience any symptoms.

• Avoid sharing food or utensils with others.

• Boost your immunity by maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise and good sleep.

Who is At Risk?

• Children below 5 years old and individuals above 65 years of age.

• Those with weakened immunity from conditions like cancer, HIV, or autoimmune disorders.

• Those with chronic conditions such as asthma or COPD.

Conclusion

HMPV is not a cause for concern currently, and the surge in cases in China is due to seasonal changes. It is not like COVID-19, and the virus has been present for many years. However, in some cases, it can lead to serious complications and hospitalisations. Along with preventive measures, it is also important to financially prepare yourself with comprehensive health insurance for any medical emergencies.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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