Could the long-running ‘common cold’ be more harmful? Yes, it might be a case of the HMPV virus. Many questions arise due to the sudden rise of HMPV Virus like, do we have to be concerned about it? How is this virus different from the COVID-19 virus? Are its symptoms and the opinions of the specialists known?
Well, don’t worry in this blog, you will get the answer to all the questions that arise in your mind. So be patient and let go through the blog.
What is the HMPV Virus?
The Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) virus is an enveloped RNA virus that mostly invades the respiratory system. The initial studies indicated that it was similar to other respiratory viruses like influenza and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), but the subsequent studies showed that it has unique genetic and pathogenic characteristics. Despite not being as common or severe as some of the others, HMV can pose significant threats to vulnerable groups.
Is HMPV similar to COVID-19 virus?
Yes. The Coronavirus disease or COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The HMPV and SARS-CoV-2 viruses both have some similarities:
- Both viruses are responsible for respiratory illness in individuals of all age groups. Especially young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems are expected to be exposed to a higher risk.
- Symptoms are also quite similar. The symptoms that are typically related to HMPV like cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath are the same ones that are displayed by people who have contracted the COVID-19 virus.
- Both viruses are most likely transmitted from a sick person to others through the secretions of the throat, sneezing, and close personal contact. The viruses are also detectable on surfaces and objects that are touched or used by infected persons and then they are carried into the mouth, nose, or eyes.
- As mentioned in Science Direct, COVID-19 seems to have a temperature vulnerability so; it might be regarded as seasonal. On the same note, HMPV is presented during distinct annual seasons the US CDC observed. HMPV remains detectable throughout the year, yet virus outbreaks are more common in the United States from early spring to late winter.
Origins and Discovery
HMV was initially discovered in the early 2000s through a study on unexplained respiratory infections. The virus was taken from passengers who complained of symptoms not belonging to the usual known pathogens and it became its signature. From its disclosure, HMPV has been found not only to one continent but all over the world as a result of a global distribution that transcends the border of countries.
Transmission
HMV is mainly spread through the respiratory droplets that are let out by an infected person who coughs, sneezes or talks. It can also survive for a longer time on surfaces which in turn makes indirect contact the secondary mode of transmission.
Also like many other respiratory viruses, HMPV has the ability to spread among many people in rooms that are not well ventilated or if people are in a crowded situation. Seasonal trends tend to go on that way with higher transmission rates being observed during colder months, although there can also be some unpredictable outbreaks year-round.
Symptoms
The symptoms of HMV infection could be mild to severe, but mostly it seems similar to other respiratory infections. Common symptoms are as follows:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Nasal congestion
- Sore throat
In the case of severe illness, most specifically among individuals with a poor immune system, the elderly, and infants, HMV can cause complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
Who is at Risk?
While every person might get the human metapneumovirus, specific groups are at greater risk of developing severe illnesses:
Infants and young children
Their immune systems are still not that developed, so they are more likely to get the disease that can lead to serious health problems.
Older adults
Immune system weakening in the elderly as a result of age can make the risk of serious infection even higher.
Individuals with chronic health conditions
People who have asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or weakened immune systems are at higher risk of severe symptoms than others.
Treatment
Currently, no specific antiviral treatment for HMV exists. Management mainly consists of dealing with symptoms of the disease and the patient’s recovery through support. Vital strategies cover:
Symptom Relief
Get over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen that act as painkillers and bring down the fever.
Hydration
The fact that everyone should drink fluids is that it is the best way to prevent dehydration. It becomes more critical when the body is affected by fever.
Rest
A good sleep helps the body to inhibit the virus by being able to rest well and restore itself to health.
In cases of severe illness, patients may need to be hospitalized for oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation. The current trend in the study is working on the development of targeted antiviral therapies and vaccines which could lead to better treatment outcomes.
Prevention
Preventing HMPV infection requires using strategies that are like those already used against other respiratory viruses. These involve the following:
Good Hygiene Practices
Regular handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is key.
Mask Wearing
In crowded or high-risk settings, masks can be worn to lower the transmission rate.
Avoiding Close Contact
Reducing close contact with a person who has symptoms decreases the spread of the disease.
Surface Disinfection
Routinely cleaning the frequently touched surfaces of the house can reduce the indirect spread of the virus.
Boosting Immunity
Properly balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and enough sleep contribute to the immune system to fight off infections.
In the end, even though the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) may not be as popular as other respiratory viruses, its ability to cause serious illness in vulnerable groups indeed makes it a health concern that should be noted. The knowledge of its differences and similarities to COVID-19, as well as its modes of transmission, symptoms, and prevention strategies, is the key to taking necessary precautions for us.
Since research on the HMPV virus is still in progress, the using of such straightforward, yet advanced, measures like the practice of good hygiene, the wearing of masks in crowded places, and the assistance of the immune system, we as a society can reduce the spread of this virus significantly.
However, with the healthcare improvement drive in action, the prospect of getting targeted treatments and vaccines for HMPV is promising, which is a big step towards more control in the future. By being aware of the current situation and taking the lead, we can cover ourselves and the ones who are more likely to be affected by this virus, which is often ignored by the public.
