HMPV Cases in India: Risk, Symptoms, and Prevention Tips

Posted on: Jan 13, 2025 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

HMPV Cases in India: Risk, Symptoms, and Prevention Tips

Understanding the HMPV Virus

The recent HMPV virus outbreak in China has created panic across the world. Many think that this could be similar to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, experts believe that the HMPV (human metapneumovirus) is not a serious virus and that it has been existing in the world for over 50 years.

The HMPV is a respiratory virus known to trigger respiratory ailments and flu-like symptoms. Serious infections of this virus are very rare. Though HMPV has existed for more than half a decade, it was officially identified in 2001 by researchers from the Netherlands. This virus is from the Pneumoviridae family. Its symptoms are almost similar to COVID-19, which is the reason for the fear and panic about HMPV today. Keep reading to know more about HMPV and its impact on people’s lives.

Why is HMPV Making Headlines?

People have lived alongside HMPV for more than 50 to 60 years. Most didn’t even know this fact until they heard about the surge in HMPV cases in China this winter. Photos of infants being given drips and people travelling everywhere with masks brought back horrific memories of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic.

The loss of lives and livelihoods during the coronavirus pandemic, when the entire world shut down, still haunts people. This is why HMPV is the buzzword today, despite the respiratory virus quietly existing among us during all these years.

Is HMPV a Newly Discovered Virus?

No, the HMPV is not a newly discovered virus. As already explained, it was discovered in 2001 but existed for many years before that.

Who is Most at Risk From HMPV?

Since HMPV is a respiratory virus, many toddlers, teenagers and adults would have already been exposed to it and become immune to it.

HMPV infection commonly attacks:

• Babies and kids younger than 5 years as their immune systems are not fully developed

• Premature babies

• Heavy smokers

• Senior citizens (people aged above 65 years) as they have weak immunity systems and may have underlying health issues

• People with chronic medical conditions like asthma COPD, respiratory ailments and infections in the upper/lower respiratory tract

• People diagnosed with cancer and HIV and those who have undergone organ transplantations

• Chemotherapy patients

• Patients consuming immunosuppressive pills

Impact of HMPV on High-Risk Groups

Here is how HMPV impacts people who are at great risk of getting infected with this virus:

Infants

• Flu-like symptoms

• Fever and cold

• Coughing, sneezing and wheezing

• Dehydration

• Complications include bronchiolitis, pneumonia, or hypoxia

Senior citizens

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

• Hampering the functioning of vital organs, such as the heart and lungs

• Complications include – severe respiratory problems

People with underlying health issues (chronic diseases, medications, etc.)

• Increase in the intensity of symptoms of the existing illnesses

• Extended stay in the hospitals for the underlying issues

• Prone to secondary infections

Is HMPV a Seasonal Infection?

Yes, HMPV is a seasonal infection. The virus is sensitive to temperature and is usually common in the winter and fall seasons. This is also the reason why this virus outbreak has been reported recently in China. HMPV in India is quite common in the months between November and March.

Effective Ways to Prevent the Spread of HMPV

• Thorough hand hygiene

• Wearing masks in public places

• Covering your mouth while coughing and sneezing

• Staying away from infected individuals

• Staying alone at home when sick

• Improving your immunity by staying hydrated and eating healthy foods

Duration of HMPV Infection – What to Expect?

HMPV infections usually last 2-5 days, regardless of whether you are asymptomatic or symptomatic. Some symptoms, like coughing, may last a week.

Can HMPV be Fatal? Understanding Its Severity

Currently, there are only about 8 cases of HMPV in India. Hence, you don’t have to panic when you hear about the outbreak in China. HMPV infections are not very serious and can be easily cured if the symptoms are treated on time. The global fatality rate of HMPV is not that significant; therefore, the infection is not as serious as COVID-19.

Could HMPV Trigger an Epidemic or Pandemic?

No, according to healthcare experts, HMPV is not likely to become an epidemic or pandemic because:

• HMPV is not a new virus, as it has been triggering flu-like symptoms and respiratory ailments for more than 50 years

• Exposure to HMPV infections has already happened for most people, and the severity of reinfections (if any) is nothing to worry about

• The spread of HMPV is far slower than COVID-19

Conclusion

Though the news about the HMPV virus outbreak in China has triggered panic among Indians, experts have assured that this is only a seasonal ailment. HMPV creates flu-like symptoms, which can be managed easily with basic prevention and hygiene strategies. It is better to keep young children and senior citizens indoors if they are unwell. Also, arrange health insurance online for coverage against medical emergencies and ensure peace of mind.

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