News | HMPV Outbreak

Human Metapneumovirus Outbreak: Could it be the next pandemic?

Will it be a pandemic like Covid-19 about five years ago?

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has spreading rapidly in China in the recent months. The reports of the virus outbreak have echoed the world. 

After China, the HMPV cases have also confirmed in India.

Will it be a pandemic like Covid-19 about five years ago? This virus has hark back the Corona virus pandemic.

Significantly, it is not a new virus, it was discovered in Netherlands in 2001. Moreover, according to the researchers HMPV has been among humans for about 60 years.

Spread:

Just like Covid-19, the virus spread through coughing, sneezing, aerosols, contact with the infected individuals and the places.

Symptoms:

Symptoms include, just like Corona virus, fever, cough, sore throat, congestion and difficulty in breathing.

Treatment or Vaccine:

Currently, there is no specific vaccine for HMPV. A Research is in progress to find a vaccine that can teat RSV and HMPV using a single injection. Presently, there is a vaccine for RSV.

Prevention:

Although there is no vaccine for HMPV but the following measures can be taken for prevention.

• Frequently wash your hands
• Wear masks
• While coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth.