What Is HMPV, the Virus Surging in China? – Symptoms and More

HMPV, a respiratory virus has gripped China with widespread concerns over it transforming into a global outbreak.

Health authorities and government agencies are on high alert right now, monitoring the situation closely.

In the aftermath of COVID-19, individuals and governing authorities must come together to curtail the spread of HMPV before it escalates out of control.

Here’s what you need to know about HMPV!

What is HMPV?

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that can cause flu or cold-like symptoms. First identified in 2001 in the Netherlands, HMPV can lead to upper and lower respiratory disease.

HMPV can affect people of all ages, though children, older adults (65+), and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk.

What are the symptoms of HMPV?

The common symptoms of HMPV are:

• Coughing
• Fever
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Nasal congestion
• Wheezing
• Difficulty in breathing

HMPV presents with symptoms similar to flu, making the condition difficult to diagnose.

Experts at Surgimed Hospital recommend watching out for HMPV symptoms and seeking medical attention promptly to ensure timely care and recovery.

Complications of HMPV

Most individuals with HMPV present with mild symptoms. However, the disease can also lead to severe respiratory complications in some cases.

Individuals with a weakened immune system are more susceptible to these complications.

The possible complications of HMPV are:

Pneumonia

If the virus spreads to the lungs, it can lead to pneumonia, which poses a severe health risk.

Pneumonia can cause inflammation and a buildup of fluid in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. It is a life-threatening condition.

Bronchiolitis

HMPV can cause a severe complication called bronchiolitis.

Bronchiolitis is a lung infection that causes the small airways known as bronchioles to become inflamed and fill up with mucous. Children and young infants are at a greater risk of this condition.

Respiratory failure

HMPV also poses a severe risk of respiratory failure. This happens when the lungs fail to supply an adequate supply of oxygen to fulfill the body’s requirements.

Respiratory failure is a medical emergency that requires immediate intensive care to stabilize the affected individual.

Secondary bacterial infections

The HMPV virus can also increase your risk of developing secondary bacterial infections such as bacterial pneumonia, sinusitis, and ear infections (otitis media).

Exacerbation of existing conditions

HMPV may also worsen existing chronic conditions, including asthma and COPD.

How does HMPV spread?

According to the CDC, HMPV can spread through direct (coming into contact with an infected person) or fomite contact (touching contaminated surfaces).

Coughing and sneezing is another common cause of HMPV transmission.

HMPV cases usually peak during the winter, lasting through spring.

HMPV prevention

To reduce the risk of getting HMPV, you can follow these preventive measures:

• Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water or a hand sanitizer.
• Avoid crowded spaces.
• Refrain from touching high-risk areas, including your mouth, nose, and eyes.
• Wear a mask when going out in public.
• Practice social distancing by avoiding close contact with others, shaking hands, etc.
• Do not share personal belongings such as forks, spoons, toothbrushes, and towels.
• Cover your mouth if you cough or sneeze.
• Stay away from individuals showing symptoms of contagious illnesses, such as the flu.

HMPV cases surge in China, India, and other countries

There has been a recent rise in HMPV cases in China, first brought to light in December 2024.

Since then, other countries, such as India and the UK, have also confirmed cases of the virus, sparking worldwide concern.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has taken note of the issue and issued a statement.

“The observed increases in acute respiratory infections and associated pathogen detections in many countries in the Northern hemisphere in recent weeks is expected at this time of year and is not unusual.”

The WHO statement assures individuals that respiratory infections such as HMPV usually surge around this time of year, so there is no need to panic.

However, government agencies in China and other countries are taking action by sending health messages to citizens with instructions on how to prevent the spread of such diseases.

Similar to China, there has also been a rise in HMPV cases in India. A total of 7 HMPV cases have been reported thus far as the Indian government continues to assess the developing situation closely.

WHO’s take on the HMPV situation

Margaret Harris, a spokesperson for the World Health Organization (WHO) has stressed that the rising cases of HMPV aren’t out of the ordinary and they are what you would expect during this season.

“China’s reported levels of respiratory infections are within the normal range – it’s what we would expect to see for the winter season,” said Margaret Harris, speaking on the issue in a news briefing on 7th January 2025.

Conclusion

The sudden rise in HMPV cases in China and other parts of the world is concerning, despite the reassuring statements from WHO and other health authorities.

It is advised to stay safe by following safety protocols and taking preventive measures to protect yourself and your loved ones from this virus.

In case you suspect you have contracted HMPV, you can visit a general physician in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and other cities of Pakistan through oladoc.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Is there a vaccine for HMPV?

There is currently no vaccine available to treat HMPV. Individuals can follow good hygiene practices and social distancing to stay safe and reduce the risk of disease transmission.

How long does HMPV last for?

Mild cases of HMPV only last around 2-7 days and go away on their own. Recovery can take longer in case of severe cases with complications like pneumonia.

Sources

• About Human Metapneumovirus (CDC)
  Retrieved from: https://www.cdc.gov/human-metapneumovirus/about/index.html
• UN Geneva Press Briefing – 07 January 2025
  Retrieved from: https://www.unognewsroom.org/story/en/2470%20/un-geneva-press-briefing-07-january-2025/0/WjnegYbwZ1
• Keeping Tab On Number Of HMPV Cases “Meaningless”: Ex-WHO Chief Scientist (NDTV)
  Retrieved from: https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/only-3-of-respiratory-cases-tested-are-hmpv-positive-former-who-chief-scientist-soumya-swaminathan-7421509
• Trends of acute respiratory infection, including human metapneumovirus, in the Northern Hemisphere (WHO)
  Retrieved from: https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2025-DON550