HMPV cases detected in India: Experts decode difference between human metapneumovirus and COVID-19

After two cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection were detected in Bengaluru, Karnataka, another case of HMPV virus in an infant has surfaced in Gujarat's Ahmedabad.

According to a PTI report, the condition of the child is stable now. However, the total official tally seems to be rising in India, with 3 confirmed cases reported on Monday. Amid the scare of the virus, the governments of states like Delhi, Maharashtra, Kerala, Karnataka, and Telangana have issued strict safety guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus.

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a type of respiratory virus that is similar to the symptoms of the flu. Moreover, on Friday, when the shocking visuals of overwhelmed hospitals in China surfaced on social media, many questioned whether the COVID-19 virus is back again. Well, let¡¯s find out what the difference is between COVID-19 and human metapneumovirus (HMPV).

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has detected two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka. Both cases were identified through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens, as part of ICMR's ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses¡­ pic.twitter.com/PtKYmgztKb

¡ª ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025

How is human metapneumovirus (HMPV) different from COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a recent disease that is accountable for respiratory illnesses leading to serious world catastrophes, from the easy spreading of the coronavirus to global pandemics. ¡°At present, COVID-19 causes a serious outbreak and massive dissemination through human-to-human contact. Human Metapneumovirus is characterised by paramyxovirus; hence, pandemic crisis chances are rare due to predominant seasonal infections,¡± says Dr. Shrey Srivastava, Consultant - Internal Medicine, Sharda Hospital.

COVID-19 symptoms go way beyond fevers, coughs, and shortness of breath, while moderate cases of this new viral infection will display symptoms and manifestations like loss of taste and smell. Dr. Shrey further adds, ¡°Severe cases include possible complications such as pneumonia and respiratory distress. HMPV shows mild manifestations or symptoms such as runny nose and cough. An HMPV can cause bronchitis if pneumonia is contracted or the condition gets worse.¡±

? #Breaking
?PRESS RELEASE REGARDING #HMPV

One must be prepared for any ill effects of virus.

At present the situation appears to be under control and there is no need to panic!

But @MoHFW_INDIA must take presumptive actions.@PMOIndia @JPNadda @DghsIndia @ANI @PTI_News pic.twitter.com/x82zoAEj6t

¡ª FAIMA Doctors Association (@FAIMA_INDIA_) January 6, 2025

Difference between diagnosis of COVID-19 and HMPV virus

COVID-19 diagnosis depends on RT-PCR and rapid antigen tests. HMPV diagnosis counts on PCR and immunofluorescent assay. Vaccines exist to curb COVID-19, while HMPV could answer with symptomatic treatment only because of the unavailability of vaccines.

Which virus is more lethal, COVID-19 or HMPV

HMPV is another respiratory virus that can cause severe disease, particularly among young children, older adults, and immunocompromised persons.

Regarding death rates, HMPV is a significant cause of lower respiratory tract infections, less lethal than COVID-19. Extremely rare instead is the evolving, invariably serious HMPV infection leading to rare pneumonia in vulnerable populations.

Does the HMPV virus have a connection with the winter season?

HMPV infections are common during late winter and early spring in the onset of respiratory diseases. According to Dr. Renu Soni, MD (Respiratory Medicine), Consultant Pulmonologist, NIIMS Medical College, Greater Noida, ¡°This is similar to the seasonality other respiratory viruses tend to follow, like influenza and RSV. SARS-CoV-2-induced COVID-19 has a wider and more unpredictable impact, with far higher mortality rates formed through a nadir during peak waves.¡±

Though COVID-19 is spread largely through respiratory droplets, HMPV and COVID-19 are absolutely realisable agents.

Be safe; maintaining good hygiene and awareness could aid the condition of this pandemic's spread.

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