Dr Jaideep A Gogtay, Global Chief Medical Officer, Cipla Ltd.

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common respiratory virus that causes symptoms resembling that of a cold and cough. While its presence in humans dates back to 1970’s, it was officially identified by scientists only in the year 2001. Recently, there have been some concerns, and speculations regarding similarities between HMPV and COVID-19, but the two viruses differ significantly in several key aspects.

Both HMPV and SARS-CoV-2 (the COVID-19 virus) are respiratory pathogens transmitted through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces. They share symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath. However, COVID-19 tends to have a broader symptom profile, including loss of taste and smell and is associated with a higher risk of systemic complications. In contrast, HMPV primarily affects children under five and adults over 65, and its symptoms generally resolve within 7 to 10 days in healthy individuals. While the infection can be more severe in individuals with weakened immune systems or underlying conditions, it is typically not a cause for serious public health concern as COVID-19.

It is important to view HMPV in its appropriate context. The virus has been circulating globally, including in India, for decades without causing any significant health concern or crisis. Organizations such as the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and global health bodies, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have not flagged it as a potential pandemic threat.

While there is no specific antiviral treatment for HMPV as yet, one can manage symptoms using pain and fever medicines such as paracetamol and ibuprofen (avoid aspirin), decongestants and sometimes cough medicines. . However, these medications do not directly treat the viral infections and it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before giving OTC medications to children, especially aspirin, due to potential adverse effects.

Preventive measures such as rest, avoiding strenuous activity, and staying home when symptomatic can help contain the spread of virus. Diagnosing HMPV can be difficult based solely on symptoms, as it shares similarities with other respiratory infections like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza. The most reliable diagnostic method for detecting HMPV is reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), while Antigen detection assays provide quicker results but are less sensitive.

In India, surveillance programs like those run by the ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) regularly monitor for respiratory viruses, including HMPV. These programs are vital in tracking trends in respiratory illnesses and ensuring that public health measures are in place. Also, the government has highlighted the strength of its health infrastructure and surveillance networks, which remain vigilant in detecting and responding to emerging threats.

HMPV is undoubtedly a contagious virus but it is not currently a major cause for concern or a significant cause for alarm. It is important to remain informed, practice good hygiene, and to follow public health guidelines to help mitigate its spread. As public health authorities continue their vigilant monitoring, it is evident that HMPV, while noteworthy, is far from being a real threat on the scale of a pandemic.

References

1. Uddin S, Thomas M. Human Metapneumovirus. [Updated 2023 Jul 17]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560910/
2. About Human Metapneumovirus. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/human-metapneumovirus/about/index.html. Last accessed on: 10^th January 2025.
3. HMPV in India: What we know so far? Available from: https://frontline.thehindu.com/news/hmpv-human-metapneumovirus-india-china-outbreak-virus-illness-respiratory-system/article69068140.ece. Last accessed on: 10^th January 2025.