HMPV: Nothing to worry about yet another pandemic

A new Corona-like virus, Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is fast spreading in China, with many affected admitted to hospitals during the second half of December, last year. Five years after Covid wreaked havoc across the world, reports of HMPV are creating a scare among the public. It may be recalled that spread of Covid virus also intensified at the same time in 2019.

Responding to the fears, the health experts in India asked the people not to go into panic mode and remain calm. There is nothing to worry about as HMPV infection would lead to a cough, cold, fever, a blocked nose, shortness of breath, they said.

According to social media posts, along with HMPV, cases of influenza A, mico plasma, pneumonia, Covid-19 virus cases are also increasing. Videos showing people in protective gear like face masks, long plastic gowns and knee boots thronging hospitals are going viral.

People affected with HMPV are reportedly showing symptoms of Covid-19 patients. They are complaining of cold, fever, cough, running nose and congestion in the respiratory tract.

China Preventive Medicine Association constituted a monitoring body to handle the crisis, according to a report in a global media outlet.

Reports said that HMPV was identified in 2001 and it is being said that it is a seasonal disease.

Flu cases are also on the rise in China. Responding to the situation, the official representative of Chinese foreign affairs ministry Mao Ning said that it is usual for flu and respiratory diseases to spread during winters. When compared to last year, these cases are less this year.

Ning also said that foreigners touring China need not panic and that their government would give an assurance of it.

The Union Health Ministry of India convened a Joint Monitoring Group (JMG), including experts from various health organisations like the World Health Organisation (WHO), National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

The Indian government allayed fears over yet another pandemic and stated: “Data from a preparedness drill held across the country recently indicated that it is completely equipped to deal with any surge in the respiratory illnesses.”