HMPV, or Human Metapneumovirus, was first identified in 2001 and has recently garnered attention in India. The symptoms associated with HMPV closely resemble those of influenza and the common cold, typically presenting as mild in healthy adults. However, the virus can lead to more severe manifestations in children and older adults. Following its detection, there was a swift tendency among the public to associate its symptoms with those of COVID-19.

What is HMPV?

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a prevalent respiratory virus that generally results in mild, cold-like symptoms. Research indicates that it has been present in human populations since the 1970s, although it was officially identified by researchers in 2001. The virus is responsible for 4-16% of acute respiratory infections worldwide, with incidence rates peaking between November and May. While the majority of adults have developed immunity due to prior exposure, hMPV can lead to more serious symptoms in infants experiencing it for the first time and in individuals with compromised immune systems.

The World Health Organization has stated that there have been no reports of an outbreak pattern for HMPV, in contrast to COVID-19. But how does HMPV differ from COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses? In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Maheshkumar Lakhe, an Infectious Diseases Physician at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospitals in Hadapsar, Pune, explained, “HMPV is one of the causes of respiratory tract infections across all age groups and belongs to the Paramyxovirus family. The clinical presentation of HMPV is similar to that of RSV, with a clinical spectrum that ranges from mild respiratory illness to moderate or even severe bronchitis and pneumonia, which can be life-threatening. Infants, young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to this virus and face a higher risk.”

The infectious diseases physician further elaborated on the comparison of HMPV with other respiratory illnesses.

HMPV vs. Influenza

"Respiratory viruses typically exhibit a higher prevalence during the colder months, largely due to increased indoor crowding and humidity. Both HMPV and influenza are transmitted through respiratory droplets. However, influenza is distinct in that it can be prevented annually through vaccination, and antiviral treatments such as oseltamivir are available for its management. In contrast, HMPV currently lacks a specific vaccine, and treatment primarily involves supportive care," the physician stated.

HMPV vs. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

"Both HMPV and RSV are primarily treated with supportive care, including hydration and fever control. However, RSV offers an additional preventive measure through the use of monoclonal antibodies for high-risk infants. This highlights a significant limitation in the management of HMPV, as no similar prophylactic options are available," he noted.

HMPV vs. Covid

"Although HMPV and SARS-CoV-2 are both transmitted via respiratory droplets, SARS-CoV-2 is considerably more contagious and presents a wider array of symptoms, including distinctive ones like the loss of taste and smell. Furthermore, SARS-CoV-2 can result in more severe health complications, such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), requiring a variety of targeted treatments ranging from antivirals to corticosteroids, along with the rapid development and distribution of multiple effective vaccines," Dr. Maheshkumar Lakhe remarked.

Read Also: Stress and Inflammation: Nutritional Strategies for Effective Weight Management

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!