Another pandemic? What You Need to Know About HMPV

In recent weeks, images of overcrowded hospitals in China have raised concerns about a new health threat.

The cause? A surge in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV)—a flu-like illness that many people might not have heard of.

So what is this new virus? And is the world experiencing another Covid-like pandemic?

Here’s a simple guide to help you understand what HMPV is and how it affects people:

What is HMPV?

HMPV, or human metapneumovirus, is a respiratory virus that was first discovered in 2001. Despite being relatively new to science, it’s not rare.

In fact, public health experts say that almost every child gets infected with HMPV by the time they turn five.

How Does HMPV Spread?

Like many respiratory viruses, HMPV spreads through:

• – Coughing and sneezing: Inhaling droplets from an infected person.
• – Touching surfaces: Picking up the virus from contaminated objects and then touching your face.
• – Close contact: Being in close proximity to someone who’s infected.

Symptoms of HMPV

For most people, HMPV feels like the common flu or a bad cold. Symptoms include:

• – Coughing
• – Runny nose
• – Fever
• – Sore throat
• – Shortness of breath in severe cases

However, some groups are at a higher risk of serious illness, including:

• – Young children, especially infants
• – Older adults
• – People with weakened immune systems or chronic illnesses

How Serious is HMPV?

For most healthy people, HMPV is mild and goes away on its own with rest and hydration.

But for very young children, older adults, and those with underlying health issues, it can lead to more serious complications, such as:

• – Bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lungs)
• – Pneumonia
• – Breathing difficulties

Is HMPV the Next Covid-19?

No, HMPV is not like Covid-19.

Public health experts stress that this virus has been around for decades and is part of the seasonal illnesses we see every year.

It’s not a new threat, and most people recover without needing medical attention.

How Can You Protect Yourself?

The good news is that protecting yourself from this new virus is similar to avoiding other respiratory illnesses:

1. – Wash your hands: Regularly and thoroughly with soap and water.
2. – Avoid close contact: Especially with people who are sick.
3. – Cover your mouth and nose: Use a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing.
4. – Clean surfaces: Disinfect frequently touched items like phones, doorknobs, and toys.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Seek medical help if you or your child experience:

• – Difficulty breathing
• – High fever that doesn’t go down
• – Severe fatigue or dehydration

The Bottom Line

HMPV is not new and, for most people, it’s not dangerous.

While it’s causing a spike in cases in some parts of the world, it’s a seasonal virus that can be managed with good hygiene and rest.

However, doctors advise standard general precautions such as wearing a mask in crowded places, avoiding crowds where possible if one is at higher risk of more severe illness from respiratory virus infections, practising good hand hygiene, and getting the flu vaccine.

Stay informed, stay calm, and take the usual precautions to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.