What is HMPV, the new virus outbreak in China and should Indians worry about it?

HMPV is a respiratory virus identified in 2001 that causes upper and lower respiratory infections. The virus can infect people of all ages, although young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are the most susceptible. The virus belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, where it primarily infects the respiratory tract, with a similarity to the Respiratory Syncytial Virus. HMPV infections typically have an incubation period ranging from 3 to 6 days, progressing from mild cold-like conditions to serious respiratory distress.


HMPV is not as contagious as COVID-19 caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus and belongs to different viral families, but its symptoms often overlap with those of other respiratory infections like the flu. Unlike COVID-19 that led to global pandemic because of the high transmission rate and serious complications associated with the disease, HMPV is usually less virulent although serious outcomes may be associated with infection in vulnerable groups.
HMPV is characterized by cold like symptoms such as cough, runny nose, fever and nasal congestion. In extreme cases, it causes wheezing, breathing difficulties, bronchitis, and Pneumonia.
This virus can infect anyone, but the most susceptible groups are infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems or pre-existing and respiratory conditions like asthama or COPD.
It spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes. The virus is more common in colder months.
Preventing the HMPV involves Good hand hygiene, Avoiding close contact, masking and ventilation, clean surfaces and stay home if unwell.
HMPV has not yet been reported in India. However, the presence of this virus in china gives an impression that it could cross borders due to international travel. India's health authorities are very vigilant regarding the situation and the country has the experience of dealing with respiratory viruses like COVID-19 and the flu. Thus, it has all the infrastructures to tackle the outbreak.
For healthy individuals, HMPV causes mild illness and resolves on its own. However, the vulnerable population must take precautions and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

Dr. Manish Mittal, Consultant Physician, Bhailal Amin General Hospital, Vadodara

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