Recently, an outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China drew a disharmony of international interest. Though the virus is not a newcomer at all, a sudden rush in recent times has raised alarm bells concerning its likely impact on places like the Middle East. Let’s discuss what HMPV is like in comparison to other respiratory illnesses, such as COVID-19, the current status of the virus in China, and what individual preventive measures could be taken to prevent an infection.
What is HMPV?
This virus, the so-called Human Metapneumovirus, exists as a respiratory virus that bears a lot of resemblance to the other viruses that cause the common cold and can result in symptoms such as fever, cough, nasal obstruction, sore throat, and shortness of breath. Most people recover from HMPV without complication, but it can cause bronchitis or pneumonia in the at-risk population of young children, older adults, and people with compromised immune systems.
First isolated in 2001, HMPV is a virus identified by Dutch scientists, though serologic evidence indicates the global circulation of this virus for a minimum of the past 60 years. Though known to the global population for decades, it is now lighting up the monitors because of an increase in cases, particularly in China.
Is HMPV a New Virus?
No, HMPV is not a newly discovered virus. It was recognized first as a pathogen in 2001 and has since been the subject of articles pointing out that it has circulated worldwide for many decades, possibly as far back as the 1950s. At present, the case count in China has sharply increased the levels of unease. Public health and medical professionals are tracking the events closely, particularly as the pathogen closely mimics other respiratory pathogens that have caused great concern, such as COVID-19.
How is HMPV Similar to COVID-19?
Both HMPV and COVID-19 belong to a new class of respiratory illnesses. The hallmark feature of both infections is their inclination to show very mild signs and symptoms, occasionally even quite severe forms. The similarities are as follows:
- HMPV and COVID-19 are both respiratory diseases that affect the lungs and the airways, resulting in cough, fever, sore throat, and shortness of breath.
- Both can be transmitted by respiratory droplets produced when infected persons cough, sneeze, or talk and in most cases, through contact with surfaces contaminated with the viruses.
- Mostly it occurs among children, seniors, and those with weakened immune systems who are more susceptible to suffering from severe complications caused by HMPV and COVID-19.
However, one of the significant differences is that, while vaccines against COVID-19 have been quite widely made available and efficacious in curtailing transmission of the disease, nothing like such a vaccine has been developed for HMPV. Prevention is, therefore, much less easy for people who must resort to avoidance techniques and hygiene measures.
Is There Any Vaccine for HMPV?
At this time, however, there is no vaccine for HMPV as of over two decades of research on the subject. The virus has been learned significantly, but scientists still have not figured out how to develop a vaccine. In this situation, it is most important to take all preventive measures against the spread of the virus.
Currently, public health recommendations include the following basic hygiene practices:
- Frequent Handwashing: Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds on a regular basis, as it reduces the chances of spreading the virus.
- Avoid Close Contact With Sick Individuals: Sick people could be a source of exposure during symptomatic events.
- Coughing and sneezing: Cover mouth and nose with the tissue or elbow to decrease the spread of droplets during respiratory procedures.
Effect of HMPV in the Middle East and Dubai
Recently, an increase in cases of HMPV was noted in China, making countries in the Middle East jittery, especially the United Arab Emirates, which is a bustling international travel hub. Thus, health authorities really keep their eyes on things. Especially since similar viruses in the past caused problems such as respiratory diseases in the geographical region.
Preventive measures to stop the spread of HMPV include basic health education campaigns and clean hygiene practices among Middle Eastern countries. The region has also strengthened travel advisories and monitoring of arriving passengers showing symptoms.
What Does the WHO Say About It?
As of date, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has not made any comment regarding the outbreak of HMPV in China. Other countries, including those from the Middle East, are putting in place measures to prevent the spread of the virus. Global health authorities, like WHO, closely monitor the developments too. The ongoing efforts of WHO monitoring are indicative of global concern regarding possible threats to public health.
Being Careful
Currently, there is no specific vaccine or cure yet available for HMPV. However, individuals have the following precautions to protect oneself and others against the virus:
- Wash Hands Regularly: Wash hands using soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially when having a cough/sneeze and after going out in public.
- Avoid touching your face: Avoid touching the eyes, nose, or mouth using unwashed hands. This minimizes the risk of the virus being transferred from the surfaces into the respiratory system.
- Practice Social Distancing: Maintain a safe distance from those showing symptoms of sickness-sharing cough or sneezes.
- Cover Coughs and Sneezes: Use tissue or elbow to cover mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing. Dispose of the tissue as soon as possible.
- Clean Frequently Touched Surfaces: Regularly disinfect commonly touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, and shared electronics, to reduce the chance of contamination.
Simple guidelines like these could bring the risk of contracting or spreading HMPV to a minimum as they could help protect one and his community.
Conclusion
An epidemic of HMPV is making waves in China today alongside the call for heightened alertness and prevention from respiratory viruses. Though HMPV is not new in the way it perpetuates, the recent increase in case numbers, not least where travel can happen at breathtaking paces. The Middle East always requires continued vigilance.
Until there is a vaccine, best practices in personal hygiene and early medical attention would be effective defenses against the virus. Hence, continuing information and simple but effective hygiene measures to keep less tracking of HMPV sharing keep self-and communities safe.
