New Delhi: HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) is a respiratory virus that can cause infections in the respiratory tract, mostly in the lungs and airways. It is a member of the Paramyxoviridae family, which includes viruses such as the Respiratory Syncytial Virus. HMPV was initially identified in 2001, and it is a prevalent cause of respiratory disease in both children and adults, particularly during the winter months. HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) and COVID-19 are both respiratory viruses, although they differ greatly in terms of severity, spread, and worldwide impact.
What are the symptoms of HMPV?
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr. Shrey Kumar Srivastav, Senior Consultant at Sharda Hospital, answered all questions and listed the causes, and symptoms of HMPV.
HMPV often causes mild to moderate disease, with symptoms such as cough, fever, and shortness of breath, and is most dangerous in young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised people. While it can cause more serious illnesses such as pneumonia in these vulnerable populations, it is not as common or severe as COVID-19. In contrast, COVID-19, generated by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has far-reaching consequences.
It can cause a wide variety of symptoms, from moderate to severe, with the possibility of long-term consequences (known as protracted COVID) and greater mortality rates, especially in older persons and those with pre-existing health issues. COVID-19 is also significantly more transmissible than HMPV, with the virus spreading quickly across communities, resulting in a global epidemic that has killed millions of people globally.
Prevention of HMPV
COVID-19 therapy options include effective vaccinations and antivirals, which have played an important role in reducing the disease’s prevalence and severity. HMPV, on the other hand, does not presently have a specific vaccination or antiviral treatment, therefore care is mainly based on symptom alleviation, such as rest and water. Although both viruses are seasonal and spread via respiratory droplets, COVID-19 has had a far greater societal and healthcare impact, causing extensive disruptions to daily life and businesses.
HMPV seasonal outbreaks are more limited and do not cause the same global concern as COVID-19. As a result, while HMPV remains a worry, particularly for vulnerable populations, it is not as severe or disruptive as COVID-19, which continues to pose a substantial public health burden.
HMPV seasonal outbreaks are more limited and do not cause the same global concern as COVID-19. As a result, while HMPV remains a worry, particularly for vulnerable populations, it is not as severe or disruptive as COVID-19, which continues to pose a substantial public health burden. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
