Signs and symptoms of HMPV
HMPV typically affects the respiratory system, with common symptoms including sore throat, fever, nasal congestion, cough, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, it can lead to pneumonia or bronchiolitis, requiring hospitalisation and oxygen therapy.
“HMPV generally affects children below one year of age to under five years. Major symptoms include fever, cough, cold, and respiratory distress. Sometimes the distress may be so severe that breathing support in PICU, like high-flow nasal cannula or CPAP, becomes necessary,” said Dr Saheli Dasgupta, Pediatric Critical Care Head at Peerless Hospital, Kolkata.
She further emphasised that timely consultation with a pediatrician is critical to prevent complications, as HMPV mostly affects infants.
In adults, HMPV often affects people over 65 years of age who experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, runny nose, and shortness of breath.
Is HMPV like any other common cold virus?
While HMPV shares similarities with other respiratory viruses like the flu or RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), it can cause more severe symptoms in vulnerable populations, such as infants, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
Dr Manisha Mendiratta, Associate Director & Head of Pulmonology at Sarvodaya Hospital, stated, “HMPV usually produces mild to moderate flu-like symptoms but can become severe in people with low immunity.”
Healthcare providers typically rely on nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT), including RT-PCR, and immunofluorescence or ELISA tests for accurate detection.
Is HMPV similar to Covid-19 virus?
HMPV and SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19 virus) are both respiratory pathogens but differ significantly in virology, transmission, and public health impact.
Both spread through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces and can cause symptoms like fever, cough, and shortness of breath. However, Covid-19 has a broader range of symptoms, including loss of taste and smell, and a higher potential for systemic complications.
Dr Srivatsa Lokeshwaran, Lead Consultant, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru, remarked, “It’s premature to compare HMPV with Covid-19. HMPV has been in circulation for a long time and primarily affects children under five and adults over 65. While any virus can mutate and become more virulent, current data does not indicate pandemic potential for HMPV.”
HMPV scare: Symptoms, risks, expert advice – your detailed guide
