- China: A new virus, human metapneumovirus (HMPV), is spreading in China, particularly among children under 14. Although cases are rising in China, no HMPV cases have been reported in India so far.
- It has been a little over four years since China, India and several other countries recovered from the fangs of the Covid-19 pandemic. Three days into 2025, the spread of a new mysterious virus in China is causing panic.
- The virus, called human metapneumovirus (HMPV), has been spreading in China. The country reported rising cases of HMPV, especially among those under 14 in northern provinces, reported Reuters. Amid the health scare, there have been speculations on whether the virus will impact India, or bring back the COVID-19 days.
- HMPV symptoms are mostly similar to that of COVID-19. Cases have only been reported in China till now. So far it is not a cause of alarm, but a close watch is needed, there isn't any differentiating symptom between COVID-19, and HMPV.
- It can only be differentiated through viral study
who is at a higher risk?
Young children, older adults and those with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of developing severe illness due to HMPV.
What are the complications of HMPV?
Sometimes HMPV can cause severe illness that might require hospitalisation. Bronchiolitis, Bronchitis, Pneumonia, Asthma or COPD flare-ups and Ear infection (otitis media) are a few complications.
Symptoms
- Symptoms commonly associated with HMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. It most likely spreads from an infected person to others through secretions from coughing and sneezing, and close personal contact such as touching or shaking hands.
- Precautionary measures such as wearing masks in crowded places, avoiding close contact, can help reduce the risk of contracting HMPV, and other similar respiratory viruses.
- 2025 is not the first time that HMPV cases have been reported. Around 2011-12, several HMPV cases had been reported in USA, Canada and Europe.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information.
