In latest years, viruses affecting our respiratory system have been a developing subject. Similarly, one such virus gaining interest is the HMPV virus (Human Metapneumovirus). No doubt, this is not as widely known as the deadly COVID-19 Pandemic, but that is an extreme respiration infection that can genuinely result in intense contamination.
Here, we will navigate everything you need to understand about the HMPV virus and most importantly methods to guard yourself and your family. We will also go through its symptoms, remedy options, and other facts.
What Exactly is HMPV Virus?
The HMPV virus (Human Metapneumovirus) is an extreme respiratory virus that belongs to the same family as the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and the parainfluenza virus. In 2001 it became recognized however it was likely been circulating for many years.
Like RSV and influenza, HMPV primarily affects the respiratory tract which leads to symptoms that range from mild cold to critical respiratory distress. The virus can cause severe bronchitis, pneumonia, and breathing difficulties to most people who recover without complications. Nowadays, this virus is responsible for a significant number of hospitalizations each year.
Why are HMPV Cases Rising in China?
Like many respiratory infections, HMPV is most active during late winter and spring.
This is because viruses survive better in the cold, and can pass more easily from one person to another as people spend more time indoors with closed windows.
In northern China, the current HMPV spike coincides with low temperatures that are expected to last until March.
Many other countries in the northern hemisphere – including the US – are also experiencing a growth in rates of HMPV, said Jacqueline Stephens, an epidemiologist at Flinders University in Australia.
How HMPV Virus is Spreading?
This is the virus that leads to a multi-upper respiratory tract infection for most people. It is usually almost indistinguishable from the flu. The most vulnerable to the virus are the very young, including children under two. It also poses a greater risk to those with weakened immune systems. This includes the elderly and those with advanced cancer.
If infected, a small but significant proportion of immunocompromised people can easily develop more severe disease where the lungs are affected with wheezing, breathlessness, and symptoms of croup.
How to Protect Yourself Against HMPV? Do’s and Don’ts
No matter, if the virus is currently in China, it also exists in the US. Along with the flu, HMPV tends to spread more during the cold winter months, like in China. And yes, there is currently no vaccine invented against HMPV. But, there are certain things one can do naturally and protect oneself against the HMPV virus.
Do’s:
- Avoid Close Contact
- Indulge in Good Hygiene
- Stay at Home
- Eat a healthy diet and drink lots of water
- Boost Your Immune System
Don’ts:
- Shaking handsReusing handkerchiefs or tissue paper
- Close interaction with ill individuals
- Frequent contact with the mouth, nose, and eyes
- Throwing up in public
- Using medications without a doctor’s advice (self-medication)
Is there any Chance of Another COVID-like Pandemic?
Fears of a Covid-style pandemic are overblown, experts say, noting that such events are typically caused by new viruses, which is not the case with HMPV. The disease is already globally present and has been around for decades.
This means people across the world have some degree of existing immunity due to previous exposure. Almost every child will have at least one infection with HMPV by their fifth birthday and we can expect to go onto to have multiple reinfections throughout life.
Experts don’t think there are currently any signs of a more serious global issue. However, health officials recommend taking sensible precautions to avoid catching HMPV and other respiratory illnesses:
- Wearing a mask in crowded places
- Avoiding crowds where possible if you are at higher risk of more severe illness
- Washing your hands regularly
- Disposing of tissues securely
People may also wish to consider getting vaccinated against other respiratory conditions such as the flu.
How HMPV Virus is Different from Other Respiratory Viruses?
As HMPV shares symptoms with other respiratory viruses, it can definitely be difficult to distinguish without medical testing. But, here’s how it is compared,
Virus
Common Symptoms
Risk Groups
Is Vaccine Available?
HMPV virus
Cough, congestion, fever
Infants, elderly immunocompromised
No
Influenza
Fever, body aches, fatigue
All ages, especially elders
Yes
RSV
Severe Congestion, wheezing, respiratory distress
Infants, elders
For high-risk groups
COVID-19
Fever, loss of taste/smell/cough, fatigue
All ages, especially those with chronic conditions
Yes
What is the Risk Associated With the HMPV Virus?
While it is still scary, and the situation needs to be constantly monitored. Most cases are mild, but young children, adults over 65, and people with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk for serious illness.
In addition, steps are being taken to prevent a situation similar to COVID-19 from happening again, with the present situation of respiratory illnesses in the country and the status of public health measures for their management. It is also reiterated that there is no unusual rise or surge of respiratory disease in the country, with measures taken to better the surveillance to detect such cases.
In the USA, HMPV is similar to a virus better known as respiratory syncytial virus, or R.S.V. It causes symptoms much like those associated with flu and COVID-19, including cough, fever, nasal congestion, and wheezing.
How to Stay Informed and Prepared with All Family Pharmacy?
Remember, the HMPV virus may not be as widely recognized as COVID-19, but yes, it also poses a serious risk, especially to vulnerable populations. By understanding the risks, symptoms, and prevention strategies, one needs to protect themselves and those around. If you find any one symptom from the above-mentioned list, visit All Family Pharmacy for expert guidance and the best quality medicines.
Stay safe and contact us today to shop some essential medicines at All Family Pharmacy!
