Experts explain the key differences among hMPV vs COVID19 and other respiratory viruses
Understanding hMPV VS COVID19 and Other Respiratory Viruses
Human Metapneumovirus has recently been in the spotlight in India due to its similarity to flu and cold-like symptoms. However, despite these similarities, there are significant differences in how this virus behaves compared to COVID-19 and other common respiratory illnesses.
While the virus usually presents with mild symptoms in healthy adults, its impact can be more severe for children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Overview of hMPV
Human Metapneumovirus is a Lung-related virus that was first identified in 2001. Although relatively new in terms of recognition, evidence suggests that the virus has been circulating in human populations since the 1970s.
It belongs to the Paramyxovirus family,which also includes other viruses such as Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
Globally, Human Metapneumovirus contributes to 4-16% of acute Lung-related infections, typically peaking between November and May.
For most healthy adults, the illness is similar to a common cold, causing symptoms like cough, nasal congestion, and mild fever. However, for infants, young children, and older adults, particularly those with compromised immune systems, this can lead to more serious conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia, which can sometimes be fatal.
The key differences in hMPV vs COVID19 & Other Lung-related Viruses?
After the emergence of COVID-19, many people began associating its symptoms with those of other Tracheal viruses, including HMPV. However, experts point out key differences between these viruses. Dr. Maheshkumar Lakhe, an Infectious Diseases Physician at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospitals in Pune, explains,
“While both Human Metapneumovirus and other Lung-related viruses like RSV cause Lung-related infections, the clinical manifestations of Human Metapneumovirus are more akin to a mild illness, though it can lead to severe pneumonia in some individuals.”
Unlike COVID-19, which has caused a global pandemic with widespread transmission and varied complications, the virus does not exhibit the same high transmissibility. The World Health Organization has indicated that:
“Human Metapneumovirus is not associated with large-scale outbreaks, and its circulation does not have the same public health implications as the novel coronavirus. COVID-19 ” can lead to a range of symptoms, including loss of taste and smell, neurological issues, and long-lasting effects such as “long COVID,” while HMPV’s effects are mostly restricted to the respiratory system.
The risk of complications with Human Metapneumovirus is generally limited to infants, children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. While COVID-19 can lead to severe complications in a broader range of individuals, this mainly causes severe illness in those who have not encountered the virus before, making it a more significant threat to specific groups rather than the general population.
Risk Factors and Vulnerable Populations
As Dr. Lakhe highlights, the clinical severity of Human Metapneumovirus largely depends on the age and health condition of the individual. Vulnerable groups, such as infants, young children, and older adults, are more likely to experience severe symptoms.
For most healthy adults, however, it causes mild cold-like symptoms and resolves without significant medical intervention. In contrast, COVID-19 has had a much broader impact across different demographics, often resulting in more serious systemic issues, including respiratory distress, multi-organ involvement, and even death.
Conclusion
While the symptoms of hMPV vs COVID19 and other respiratory viruses share some similarities, such as COVID19 the overall clinical impact differs significantly. HMPV is largely a seasonal virus with a more limited scope of impact, primarily affecting vulnerable populations. COVID-19, on the other hand, has caused widespread, long-lasting health crises.
Understanding these differences is crucial for appropriate diagnosis, treatment, and public health preparedness. For most adults, this virus remains a mild illness, but for those at higher risk, it can cause severe respiratory complications.To prevent HMPV and similar respiratory infections, practice good hygiene, wash hands frequently, avoid close contact with sick individuals, cover your mouth when coughing, and stay home when feeling unwell. For vulnerable groups, consider wearing masks and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.
