How to stay safe from HMPV Virus: Precautions & Symptoms

Discovered in the year 2021, Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family, which is closely related to the Respiratory Syncytial Virus. It primarily spreads through the respiratory droplets when sneezing or coughing. Also, it can transmit when a person comes in contact with an infected person or touches surfaces containing the virus. 

HMPV Virus Current Scenario 

To date, about seven cases of HMPV have been reported in India. Majorly, it has been found to affect elderly people and infants. The emergence of HMPV cases in India led to the onset of the trend of #Delhi Lockdown. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) reported that HMPV is not a new disease and was first reported in the year 2001. 

They advised the residents of India to remain calm. However, they are drawing parallels with the COVID-19 scenario which has instilled a sense of fear in their mind. They are concerned about the health risks, restrictions, and overwhelmed hospitals that might be associated with the HPMV virus spread. 

HMPV Cases Reported till Now

India has reported about 17 cases in the past few days. This includes five from Gujarat, three from Maharashtra, three from West Bengal, two from Karnataka, two from Tamil Nadu, one from Assam, and one from Puducherry. The first case of HMPV virus in India was reported in an 8-month-old child. 

Symptoms of HMPV Infection

HMPV infection is associated with symptoms such as

• Cough
• Nasal congestion 
• Fever
• Shortness of breath
• Sore throat. 

Although the symptoms are somewhat similar to flu, common cold, and COVID-19, people with HMPV infection can show complications such as bronchiolitis, pneumonia, bronchitis, asthma or COPD flare-ups, and ear infections. 

Risk Factors Associated with HMPV Infection

There are several risk factors associated with HMPV infection. These include:

• Season: HMPV is more prevalent in winter and early spring compared to other seasons such as the summer and the autumn. 
• Age: To date, the virus has been known to affect young children and older adults primarily. 
• Immunity: People with a weakened immune system are more susceptible to HMPV infection. 

HMPV Diagnosis  

The doctors diagnose HMPV development in a patient by studying their symptoms, medical history, and risk factors. The pathologists collect a sample from the throat or nose using a swab. After that, it is sent for PCR tests or viral culture to detect the onset of the condition. Also, doctors recommend X-rays or CT scans to detect the HMPV infection. 

HMPV Treatment Options 

There are no such options for the treatment of HMPV infection. However, the infected people can manage the condition by resting, staying hydrated, consuming over-the-counter medicines, using nasal decongestants and saline sprays, installing humidifiers, going for oxygen therapy, using bronchodilators, and taking antibiotics.  

HMPV Precautions

Individuals can keep themselves safe from the development of HMPV infections by adopting measures such as 

• Washing hands frequently
• Wearing masks
• Maintaining respiratory etiquette
• Avoiding face touching
• Self-isolation
• Ensuring proper ventilation
• Regular cleaning
• Strengthening the immune system

Society-specific HMPV Safety Measures

Aside from individual precautionary measures, people also need to adopt safety measures if they are residing in a housing society. These measures include:

• Spreading HMPV Awareness: It is of the utmost importance that people spread awareness in society regarding the symptoms, causes, and the current scenario of infection. 
• Promoting Good Hygiene Practices: The members of the society must encourage each other to maintain good individual hygiene. This will prevent the development and spread of the virus. 
• Organising Vaccination Drives: Society committee members can organise vaccination drives so that everyone gets all the necessary vaccines despite their economic backgrounds. This would potentially prevent the development of HMPV infections. 

Usually, it takes about 1 to 2 weeks to recover from the HMPV infection completely. However, proper rest, hydration and care are necessary during this phase. Also, it would be prudent to not consider social media posts and viral videos and instead keep an eye on the news channels to learn about the latest updates and government measures.