‘No surge in influenza-like cases or hospitalisations at PGIMER’
HMPV, according to the doctor, spreads easily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or touches contaminated surfaces.
3 min read
A PGIMER dean assured that the medical facilities are adequate to manage these kinds of respiratory illnesses effectively. (File)India on Monday confirmed its third case of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), causing concern among the public. However, experts say that it is similar to other flu-like illnesses and primarily spreads during winter and early spring seasons, and causes mild symptoms in healthy individuals but can lead to severe illness in vulnerable populations, such as infants and the elderly.
“HMPV is a respiratory virus that circulates during winter, often causing influenza-like symptoms such as cough, fever, and sore throat. Though it affects all age groups, it is particularly concerning for young children and the elderly. Currently, there is no surge in influenza-like cases or hospitalisations at the PGIMER,” explains Sanjay Jain, Dean, Research, and Head, Department of Internal Medicine, PGIMER. Jain suggested good hygiene practices, such as handwashing and wearing masks in crowded spaces, while assuring that the medical facilities are adequate to manage these kinds of respiratory illnesses effectively, Dr Ankita Baidya, Consultant, Infectious Diseases, Manipal Hospital, adds that HMPV is more commonly reported in children less than two years of age. The incubation period for this virus is 3-6 days, so individuals experiencing symptoms should wear masks at all times to prevent transmission, Baidya suggested.
“We need to take precautions to check transmission of the virus by self-isolation, especially in patients who are in high-risk groups and avoid social gathering. Early detection is the key. Treatment is only supportive care, and recovery is within a week in patients with high immunity. Children and elderly are particularly susceptible to HMPV infection and in some cases, they may develop complications such as pneumonia and require hospitalisation because of associated complications,” the doctor added.
Dr Ravi Kant Behl, Senior Director, Department of Internal Medicine, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mohali said that HMPV is not a new virus as it has been recognised for decades, unlike Covid-19. “While China has reported a surge in respiratory illnesses, there is no indication that the situation poses heightened threat compared to seasonal trends observed globally,” Behl said.
HMPV, according to the doctor, spreads easily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or touches contaminated surfaces. The virus circulates locally and globally during flu seasons, meaning it can be transmitted within communities without any need for travel. The children in Bangalore, he says, likely contracted the virus through close contact with infected individuals, such as family members or caregivers.
“HMPV can affect the elderly, particularly those with weakened immune systems or pre-existing health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or kidney failure. While symptoms in healthy adults are generally mild, the elderly may experience complications, including bronchitis or pneumonia, and require medical attention if symptoms worsen. Unlike COVID-19, there is no specific vaccine or antiviral treatment for HMPV, and its impact is typically seasonal rather than pandemic-level,” explained Behl.
The expert said common symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, nasal congestion, and headache. In severe cases, it can lead to wheezing, difficulty in breathing, and pneumonia. “These symptoms typically show nearly 3-6 days after exposure and often resemble those of the common cold or flu. Isolation during illness and seeking medical advice for symptoms can help reduce the risk of spread,” Behl summed up.
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