hMPV Virus Treatment and Prevention: Years after first COVID-19 case was reported, infections of another respiratory virus – human metapneumovirus (HMPV) – is looming large in several parts of China.
Amid the rise in cases, health authorities across the globe are warning over the outbreak and emphasising on enhancing hygiene measures such as wearing face masks and washing hands frequently.
The National Disease Control and Prevention Administration in China has established protocols for laboratory reporting and case verification, The Star reported.
“Data from Dec 16-22 indicates a rise in acute respiratory infections, including hMPV, particularly in northern provinces. Recent cases have predominantly involved individuals under 14 years of age,” according to Reuters.
“State broadcaster CCTV confirmed that respiratory infections this winter are largely attributed to the influenza virus, with hMPV also contributing,” the CDC added.
Reportedly, the virus was first detected in 2001 by Dutch researchers in nasopharyngeal aspirate samples from children with respiratory infections caused by unknown pathogens.
Last week, China’s diseases control authority said that it was piloting a monitoring system for pneumonia of unknown origin. As per Reuter’s report, the cases of the respiratory diseases is expected to rise through the winter.
What are the symptoms of hMPV infection?
According to the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC China), “Symptoms include cough, fever, nasal congestion and wheezing. Severe cases can result in bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly among infants, the elderly and immunocompromised individuals.”
The agency further noted that those with pre-existing lung conditions, such as asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or emphysema, are at higher risk of severe outcomes.
How does the virus spreads?
CDC China revealed that the “virus spreads primarily through droplets or aerosols from coughing or sneezing, as well as close contact or exposure to contaminated environments.” “The incubation period ranges from three to five days,” it stated.
Despite the rising number of cases, experts emphasised caution in using antiviral drugs indiscriminately for hMPV.
How hMPV infection is treated?
Currently, “no specific vaccine or antiviral treatment exists” and the management focuses on alleviating symptoms. The CDC has issued several recommendations to curb the spread of hMPV and other respiratory illnesses. These include “wearing masks in crowded places, maintaining social distance, washing hands frequently and avoiding crowded areas whenever possible”.
The department also advised maintaining good hygiene, ensuring proper ventilation of indoor spaces and adopting a healthy lifestyle.