Health

What is HMPV virus? Symptoms & precautions

Published by

Web Desk

2 years ago

BEIJING: China is seeing a surge in flu and respiratory illnesses, with hospitals overflowing with sick patients.

Viral videos circulating on social media show crowded hospitals, raising concerns about a new outbreak.

The respiratory virus, identified as human metapneumovirus (HMPV), is spreading rapidly in northern Chinese provinces, mainly affecting children and the elderly.

While many nations are closely monitoring the situation, Beijing has downplayed concerns, calling it a winter phenomenon.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has not declared it a global health emergency, but the rising cases have prompted Chinese health authorities to strengthen surveillance systems.

What is HMPV?

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that causes flu-like symptoms similar to the common cold.

Although usually mild, it can cause severe complications such as pneumonia, especially in infants, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.

HMPV is not a new virus — it was first identified in 2001. It is a single-stranded RNA virus that spreads through respiratory droplets (coughs, sneezes) or contaminated surfaces. The virus has been detected in several countries, including the UK.

Treatment & precautions

Although anyone can get HMPV, the virus poses the greatest risk to young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.

Children under five years of age are particularly vulnerable, with 5% to 16% of cases progressing to severe respiratory infections such as pneumonia.

Unlike COVID-19, there is no vaccine or antiviral treatment for HMPV.

Management primarily involves symptom control, including:

Staying hydrated
Resting
Using fever-reducing medications (as advised by a doctor)

HMPV Symptoms

Cough
Runny or blocked nose
Sore throat
Fever

In severe cases, it can lead to:

Wheezing
Breathing difficulties
Pneumonia
Severe asthma in adults

Infants under one-year-old, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of developing severe respiratory illnesses.

How to stay safe?

Health experts suggest that while there is no immediate cause for panic, those at higher risk should take preventive measures, especially during the winter and spring months.

To reduce the risk of infection, people should:

Wash hands regularly
Avoid touching the face
Wear masks in crowded places
Stay home if feeling unwell

The virus usually lasts between 3 and 6 days, and most people recover without complications. However, if symptoms worsen, high-risk individuals should seek medical attention.

As HMPV cases continue to rise in China, experts are stressing the importance of awareness and precautions to prevent its spread.

Web Desk