Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is drawing attention as cases rise in China, but health experts emphasize there is no cause for alarm. While the virus is spreading, it is not a new threat, nor does it pose the risk of becoming a pandemic.
Key Highlights:
- Chinese health authorities are closely observing an increase in cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory illness.
- Experts clarify that HMPV is not a novel virus and does not have the potential to cause a global pandemic.
- The primary symptom, a persistent cough, is often accompanied by other cold-like symptoms that typically resolve without medical intervention.
A recent surge in respiratory viral infections in China, particularly those caused by human metapneumovirus (HMPV), has drawn the attention of global health officials, including those in the United States. Although the rise in cases is noteworthy, experts stress that HMPV is neither a new virus nor a cause for alarm. With the winter respiratory season in full swing, public health authorities are closely monitoring the situation while advising the public to remain calm and informed.
Continually Monitoring the Situation
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been following the reports from China and maintains regular communication with international health organizations. “The CDC is in regular contact with international partners and monitoring reports of increased disease,” says Belsie González, MPH, a spokesperson for the CDC. “Recent reports of increased HMPV activity in China are not currently a cause for concern in the U.S., though some transmission of HMPV can be expected throughout the year in the U.S., especially during the winter respiratory virus season.”
HMPV, a respiratory virus similar to the common cold, has been known to cause seasonal spikes in infections. While a small percentage of cases may require hospitalization due to complications like bronchitis or pneumonia, the vast majority of individuals recover with minimal medical intervention.
Understanding HMPV: A Familiar Virus
HMPV belongs to the same family of viruses as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and has been circulating for decades. First identified in 2001, evidence suggests that HMPV has likely been infecting humans since at least the 1950s, as confirmed through testing of archived blood samples.
Despite its prevalence, HMPV remains relatively obscure compared to other respiratory illnesses such as influenza, COVID-19, or RSV. This is largely because the virus often causes mild symptoms that do not necessitate medical testing. “You don’t hear about HMPV as much because we don’t often test for it, because it doesn’t send a lot of people to the hospital,” explains Panagis Galiatsatos, MD, a pulmonary and critical care physician with Johns Hopkins Medicine and a spokesperson for the American Lung Association.
Dr. Galiatsatos adds that testing for HMPV typically occurs only in severe cases, such as when immunocompromised patients in intensive care units experience lingering respiratory issues. Even with limited testing, the CDC notes that only 1.4% of diagnostic tests for HMPV have recently returned positive results.
Symptoms and High-Risk Groups
HMPV symptoms are primarily respiratory and often mimic those of a bad cold or RSV. Common symptoms include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. Of these, cough is the most prominent. “The big one is cough,” emphasizes Dr. Galiatsatos. “I’ve never met a patient where it wasn’t the leading symptom.”
In more severe cases, individuals may experience wheezing, a sign of airway inflammation and narrowing. Those at higher risk for complications include infants, young children under the age of five, older adults over 65, individuals with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and people with weakened immune systems due to conditions like cancer or organ transplants.
Managing and Treating HMPV
Unlike influenza or COVID-19, there is currently no vaccine or antiviral treatment specifically for HMPV. Fortunately, most people recover without medical intervention, relying on supportive care to manage symptoms. Recommended measures include:
- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers or fever reducers.
- Using a humidifier or taking a hot shower to alleviate coughing and sore throat.
- Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Resting at home to allow the body to recover.
For individuals at higher risk of complications, hospitalization may be necessary to manage symptoms such as difficulty breathing or severe dehydration.
Preventing the Spread of HMPV
HMPV is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets, close contact with infected individuals, and contact with contaminated surfaces. The CDC advises the public to adopt the same preventive measures used for other respiratory viruses:
- Avoid close contact with sick individuals.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Refrain from touching your face, particularly the eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs and light switches.
- Consider wearing a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated areas, especially during peak respiratory virus seasons.
No Cause for Alarm
Despite the uptick in HMPV cases in China, experts underscore that this development is consistent with seasonal patterns. “HMPV cases in the U.S. have had a predictable increase since November, but the numbers of cases pale in comparison to the ‘big three’ of influenza, RSV, and COVID,” says Peter Chin-Hong, MD, an infectious disease specialist and professor at the University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine.
Dr. Chin-Hong reassures that there is no need to fear HMPV becoming a pandemic like COVID-19. “The situation is not as worrisome as with COVID because our immune cells are experienced with this pathogen, most cases are mild, and our scientific knowledge base about HMPV is much more robust than when COVID first emerged,” he explains.
Looking Ahead
China’s reports of increased HMPV cases align with typical trends for respiratory viruses during the colder months. While the virus can pose risks to certain vulnerable populations, the general public is unlikely to experience severe outcomes. By taking basic precautions and staying informed, individuals can protect themselves and their communities from HMPV and other respiratory illnesses.
As health officials continue to monitor the situation, it is clear that HMPV, though concerning for some, is a well-understood virus that does not have the potential to disrupt global health in the way COVID-19 did.