Is India Safe from HMPV ?

Concerns about respiratory disease outbreaks, such as Human metapneumovirus (HMPV), are natural in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic. This makes evidence-based communication and responses all the more crucial for society at large.

Understanding HMPVDiscovered in 2001, HMPV belongs to the Pneumoviridae family and has likely circulated among humans long before its identification. The virus is well understood within the medical community, including its behavior, symptoms, prevention strategies, detection methods, and treatment options. Despite recent media attention, HMPV is not a new threat, and many individuals in India have already been exposed to it. The reported cases during this flu season are within anticipated levels and are not a cause for alarm.

How HMPV Spreads and ManifestsHMPV spreads through respiratory droplets, contaminated surfaces, and close contact, such as handshakes. Symptoms typically appear within three to six days of infection and include nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing, breathlessness, fever, and sore throat—all resembling common cold or flu symptoms. While the majority of cases are mild and resolve quickly, the virus can occasionally cause more severe illnesses in infants, young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.

Preventive MeasuresStandard flu season precautions can effectively prevent HMPV transmission. These include wearing masks, avoiding face-touching, frequent handwashing, and staying away from crowded areas, particularly for vulnerable groups. Consistently wearing masks can also reduce the incidence of other high-burden diseases like seasonal flu, pneumonia, and tuberculosis.

India’s PreparednessIndia’s healthcare system is well-equipped to handle HMPV cases. Diagnosis can be made using a routine RT-PCR test, although such testing is usually unnecessary for mild cases. Treatment primarily involves symptom management: staying hydrated, consuming warm fluids, resting, and using paracetamol for fever. It is essential to monitor for warning signs in high-risk groups, such as rapid or difficult breathing, persistent high fever, excessive coughing, vomiting, or feeding issues in infants. Immediate medical attention should be sought if these symptoms arise.

Contextualizing HMPV in India: ICMR surveillance suggests that HMPV contributes to around 3% of ILI and SARI cases this season. Most of the cases are due to SARS-CoV-2, Influenza A and B, and RSV. Seasonality of HMPV is well documented and no evidence of significant mutations has been reported which could be of public health concern. Continued surveillance ensures timely updates and informed responses.

Comparing HMPV and SARS-CoV-2Unlike SARS-CoV-2, which emerged as a novel virus in 2019, HMPV has been part of human history for decades. Its characteristics, transmission, and effects are fundamentally different. HMPV follows a seasonal pattern and typically causes milder illness, with rare fatalities and no long-term complications. By contrast, SARS-CoV-2 led to a global pandemic due to its novelty and severe health impacts.

Learning from Covid-19India’s Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, ICMR, and NCDC are leveraging lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic to refine their surveillance and risk communication systems. Proactive monitoring and communication during this flu season provide valuable opportunities to prepare for potential future outbreaks. The NITI Aayog’s 2024 framework on pandemic preparedness underscores the importance of prioritizing these efforts alongside increased investments in vaccine research and countermeasures against high-risk pathogens identified by the WHO.

Addressing Air Pollution’s RoleAir pollution is a significant contributor to respiratory illnesses, including ILI and SARI. A comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach to combating air pollution is urgently needed to reduce its health impacts and associated mortality rates.

By combining vigilance, science-based communication, and robust public health measures, India can effectively manage HMPV and be better prepared for future health challenges.