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While the HMPV virus spreads and acts similarly to the SARS‑CoV‑2 virus, according to Dr. Jacob, HMPV is unlikely to cause the kind of pandemic that has been caused by COVID-19.
He further said, “There is no need for any concern. This is not a disease with high mortality.”
According to data from an article published in Lancet Global Health In 2021, the mortality rate of HMPV is one percent, mainly in children under five years of age.
“At the moment, I don’t think HMVP is a cause for panic. In winter, viruses tend to mutate, and we usually see an increase in viral infections,” admits Dr Kaneria.
The Chinese Center for Disease Control (China CDC) also said that the current increase in respiratory cases in the northern part of the country is in line with seasonal trends and is nothing different from normal.
A similar rise in respiratory infections is expected in other parts of the world, including India, at this time of the year.
Speaking to the press on Sunday, January 5, Director General of Health Services Dr Atul Goyal assured that hospitals are well prepared for the seasonal increase in respiratory infections.
That said, experts also urge caution.
“There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment for hMPV,” says Dr. Kaneria. “The most important thing, as we have learned during COVID, is that prevention is the best treatment.”
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Wash your hands frequently.
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Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing.
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Wear a mask and avoid crowded places, especially if you are feeling unwell.
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As always, protect immunocompromised individuals and children, practice good hand hygiene and prevent the spread of flu-like symptoms.
