What you need to know about the human metapneumovirus or HMPV
It hasn't been half a decade since the world emerged from the global coronavirus pandemic, but now anxiety is surging once again after news came out of rising cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in northern China.
In an interview with The Guardian, Mater Health Services director of infectious diseases professor Paul Griffin said that there shouldn't be a worry about another pandemic with this virus, even if the surge in cases is “significant”.
“I don't think we're necessarily concerned about a pandemic with this virus, but the surge in cases and impact it's having are significant,” he said. “A good lesson can be taken [from the pandemic] to reduce the spread, particularly given we don't have vaccines or antivirals for HMPV.”
But what is HMPV exactly? Check out some of the basic facts you need to know below.
What is HMPV?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, HMPV is a virus whose symptoms are similar to the common cold. Some of these symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose, coughs, shortness of breath, sore throat, wheezing, fever, and a rash.
The Cleveland Clinic adds that while HMPV usually causes upper respiratory infections like laryngitis and sinusitis, it can also lead to lower respiratory infections like asthma flare-ups and pneumonia or worsen chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Who is at risk from HMPV?
The Cleveland Clinic also says that children are the most at risk from HMPV, with 10 to 12 percent of respiratory illnesses in children caused by the virus. Five to 16 percent of these children develop a lower respiratory tract infection like pneumonia.
How do you treat HMPV?
The American Lung Association recommends over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen to control the pain and fever that comes with the HMPV infection. Inhalers may be provided to those suffering from wheezing and coughing. All these recommendations are to ease symptoms felt by the patient, as HMPV usually resolves on its own.
The association also recommends the thorough washing of one's hands to avoid the spread of infection. Those with infections are advised to cover their mouth when they cough and to avoid touching and sharing items.
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