Another virus spread-out has infected China after six years. Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is spreading at an alarming rate in China. Hospitals are flooded with patients. A large portion of the population has been affected by HMPV. many people are suggesting the presence of multiple viruses like HMPV, influenza A, mycoplasma pneumoniae and even covid-19. It is also hinted by the internet users that China has allegedly declared a state of emergency although nothing has been announced by the authorities.
What is HMPV?
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that causes upper and lower respiratory infections. It was first identified in 2001 and belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family, which also includes respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and parainfluenza viruses. It affects individuals of all age groups. Young children, elderly, and those with compromised immune systems are the most vulnerable to this virus.
Symptoms of HMPV
HMPV causes respiratory infections ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory illnesses. Symptoms can include cough, nasal congestion, fever, shortness of breath, wheezing and sore throat. In severe cases, especially among vulnerable populations, it can lead to bronchiolitis, pneumonia, exacerbation of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The incubation period for HMPV is usually between three to six days.
Transmission of HMPV
Similar to covid-19, HMPV can spread through close interaction with patients and being in contact with contaminated surfaces. It tends to peak during late winter and early spring, similar to other respiratory viruses like RSV and influenza. Like other similar viruses, HMPV also usually spreads from person to person through droplets from coughing and sneezing, through human contact such as hugging or kissing, and through touching surfaces and objects contaminated with the virus and then the mouth, nose or eyes.
How to prevent HMPV?
Preventing HMPV from spreading, some measurements should be taken. Wash your hands properly for about 20 seconds with soap and water to thoroughly cleanse it. Avoid touching your face with unclean hands, especially the mouth area. Maintain distance form people that are showing symptoms of cold. Keep frequently touched surfaced like doorknobs clean. These are just a few precautions everyone should keep in mind to avoid catching the virus.
Those who are experiencing the symptoms of cold or HMPV should try their best to avoid the spread of this virus by visiting the hospital immediately. Make sure that their mouth is covered when they sneeze or cough, use tissue paper or a napkin to cover their mouth to stop the spread of droplets from them to the other person. Wash hands frequently and properly to get rid of germs and minimize the risk of transmission. Stay at home if you are feeling unwell and do not share personal items like utensils etc.
How is HMPV diagnosed?
HMPV is diagnosed through laboratory tests, such as PCR tests which detects the virus’s genetic material in respiratory samples antigen tests which identifies viral proteins and serology which is used to detect antibodies. Serology is a less common method of diagnosing HMPV.
Treatment of HMPV
Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine available for HMPV. Antibiotics are not much effective as it is a viral infection. Medical care for those infected is supportive, focusing on alleviating symptoms and preventing complications. Earlier, respiratory expert at a Shanghai hospital instructed public against the use of antiviral drugs to fight Human Metapneumovirus, whose symptoms are similar to cold but has no vaccine available for it yet.
Comparison between HMPV and Covid-19
Covid-19 was a virus that caused pandemic in 2020. It stared to spread from China in the end of 2019. HMPV and covid-19, both had similar symptoms except the loss of taste which was a symptom for covid-19 but not for HMPV. Covid-19 was first identified in 2019 but HMPV was first identified in 2001. They both cause respiratory issues such as coughing, fever, sore throat, shortness of breath etc. Both of these viruses spread through respiratory droplets. HMPV is less severe than covid-19 and also less fatal.
Author
Manahil Shoaib
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