Myths about hMPV Or Human Metapneumovirus are still common and widespread even in 2025. Some people believe it only affect children while some believe it is just a mild infection.
These Myths spread misinformation among people and can pose a risk to public health.
This post will clear all the misconceptions and provide the readers with facts about this disease.
hMPV Common Myths And Facts
Myth-1 hMPV is a new virus
FACT- This virus was first found in 2001 by a virology group from the Netherlands. And it’s cases are mostly increased from winter through spring season.
Myth-2 hMPV infects only children
FACT- This virus can cause upper respiratory infections among-
- Children under 5 years of age
- Infants
- Teenagers
- Adults
- Old age people
- Immunocompromised patients such as AIDS patients.
- COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and Asthma patients are at higher risk.
- Healthcare workers are at increased risk of these infections.
Myth-3 hMPV always requires hospitalization
FACT- In serious cases, only the doctors decide on the admission of the patient. Not all patients require hospitalization.
This virus usually causes flu or cold-like symptoms.
The severity of the infections depends on the overall health of the patients. Infections can turn severe in patients who are suffering from diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Asthma, Hypertension, Diabetes, and Heart disease.
Myth-4 Vaccine is available
FACT- There is currently no vaccine that is licensed to use against this virus but the research is on going.
World Health Organization (WHO) and China response on hMPV recent cases
Current situation of hMPV infection-
According to the article published by WHO (World Health Organization) on 7 January 2025
Cases of Acute Respiratory infections increase during this time of the year which are caused by respiratory pathogens like influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and other viruses which human metapneumovirus.
Some countries in the northern hemisphere are seeing an increase in the cases of the respiratory infections which are above the baseline following the usual seasonal trends.
China’s latest response to this virus-
Based on the data published by china covering the period up to 29 December 2024, cases of respiratory infections have increased in recent weeks, particularly in the northern provinces of China.
The increased number of cases is in the expected range for this time of the year.
Influenza is the most common respiratory pathogen that affects people with acute respiratory infections.
WHO risk assessment for hMPV-
In temperate climates, seasonal epidemics of common respiratory pathogens can occur especially during winter months.
Nothing is unusual regarding the recent increase in the cases of respiratory infections in some countries.
Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) –
what is this virus?
Family- This virus belongs to the “PNEUMOVIRIDAE” family of viruses.
It is found around the world and most cases are seen in the winter to spring season but it is not limited to these seasons only and can be found throughout the year.
Mode of transmission-
- Respiratory droplet- This virus can transmit through respiratory droplets while coughing and sneezing from the infected person to a healthy person.
- Contact- When a healthy person touches the contaminated surface like a door knob or handle and then touches the eyes, mouth, or nose.
Signs and symptoms-
People infected with this virus generally show cold or flu-like symptoms-
- Cough
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Body ache
- Headache
In severe cases, it can cause severe infection of the lung (Pneumonia), or inflammation of the airways to the lungs (bronchiolitis or bronchitis) and produce symptoms like
- Wheezing
- Difficulty in breathing
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Severe fatigue
- Dehydration
- Continuous Fever
Management of the disease-
Diagnosis of hMPV-
PCR- Polymerase chain reaction is one of the best ways to diagnose this virus. However, all patients are not subjected to this test, and doctors advise for this test when the patient’s condition is not improving.
Treatment of this disease-
- Adequate rest.
- Symptomatic treatment is mostly done like treatment for fever, cold, headache, and other symptoms.
- To keep the patient hydrated the patient should drink plenty of water or intravenous fluids are given if nausea or vomiting is present in the patient.
Currently, there is no approved antiviral medicine available for the treatment of this disease.
Mostly patient starts feeling better within a few days. If the patient’s condition does not improve then hospitalization and proper medical treatment will be required depending on the patient’s condition.
For patients with breathing difficulties, an oxygen supply can be provided.
Prevention of hMPV (Human metapneumovirus) –
Prevention of this disease is similar to prevention of other respiratory infections.
- Wearing of mask is important, especially in crowded and poorly ventilated spaces.
- Improving ventilation wherever possible by opening windows or doors to improve airflow.
- Cleaning hands regularly with either soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, and nose without washing your hands properly with soap and water.
- Always eat a healthy and balanced diet which should include fruits, vegetables, eggs, and chicken.
- Regular exercise can improve lung function and improve overall health of the person and reduce weight
- Adequate sleep is necessary as it helps in repair of the damaged cells and also improve immunity of the person.
- If you feel sick and have any of the above mentioned symptoms, then you should take rest at home and avoid going in public places.
- Always cover your mouth and nose while sneezing and coughing with tissue paper.
- Follow your doctor’s advice to get proper medical guidance and treatment.
To get medical and health-related information always follow your local health government and other credible medical sources. Do not believe in myths and always fact-check with your doctor to get correct information regarding your health.
Prevention is always better than cure and if you get the correct information about preventive measures then you can protect yourself and your family from getting sick.
Never use any medicine without a doctor’s prescription as medicine can produce side effects if the wrong medicine is taken or taken in the wrong doses.
These small steps can help stop the flow of health misinformation.
