Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that causes lung and airway infections. Though it is the same as the common cold, HMPV causes serious illnesses, especially in children, older adults, and patients with weakened immunity. The HMPV is spread through airborne droplets or by touching a contaminated surface due to the coughing or sneezing of an infected person.
Symptoms of HMPV are fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, it could lead to the conditions of pneumonia or bronchiolitis requiring hospitalization.
The China Outbreak:
Within recent times, cases of HMPV have rapidly increased in China, especially within the winter period. The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention has indicated that about 6.2 percent of tests performed on patients to check for causes of respiratory diseases were positive with HMPV. Some provinces, such as Hunan province, have increased admissions of respiratory cases, predominantly children.
It is an increase in cases, as the positive cases this period are greater than that of COVID-19 and rhinovirus. Experts believe this could be related to seasonal patterns in respiratory infections.
Is It worse than COVID-19?
Both are respiratory viruses but differ in so many ways. COVID-19 caused a pandemic globally, cutting across all ages, and severe illness and death were widespread. HMPV, on the other hand, mainly affects the vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.
The symptoms of HMPV are typically minor, but those with prior conditions can develop the severe version of the virus. Unlike COVID-19, HMPV is not vaccinated, and antiviral medication against it has yet to be formulated. So far, prevention seems to be hygiene and precaution.
HMPV is less harmful and less transmissible than COVID-19. According to experts, the chances that HMPV will turn into a pandemic are low.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Family
To protect ourselves and prevent the spread of HMPV and other respiratory viruses, we should follow these precautions:
- Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
- Avoid Close Contact: Stay away from people who are sick and maintain distance in crowded places.
- Disinfect Surfaces: Regularly clean surfaces that are touched often, like doorknobs and phones.
- Masks: If you are in crowded or high-risk areas, wearing a mask can help reduce exposure.
- Go see a doctor: Severe symptoms such as difficulties in breathing; one must consult a doctor instantly.
It is also important to stay updated through reliable sources and follow health advisories issued by local authorities. While HMPV is a concern, taking simple preventive measures can go a long way in keeping ourselves and our families safe.
In conclusion, though HMPV is not as dangerous as COVID-19, caution needs to be maintained with extra vigilance during the winter season when respiratory infections are symptomatic. And thus, the only tools to counter such viruses are prevention and awareness.
