hMPV Cases on the Rise: Symptoms, Comparisons to COVID, and Why Vigilance Is Key

Increase in hMPV Cases in India

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) cases are on the rise across India, with the latest case reported in Puducherry where a child tested positive. The child, who exhibited fever, cough, and a runny nose, is currently receiving treatment at JIPMER. In addition to Puducherry, hMPV cases have also been observed in Bengaluru, Sabarkantha, and Assam.

Health experts emphasize the importance of early detection to help prevent the spread of the virus. The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued guidelines to raise awareness and educate the public on common symptoms of hMPV. These include cough, fever, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body ache, and headache. In severe cases, it can lead to pneumonia or bronchiolitis, with symptoms such as wheezing, breathing difficulties, chest pain, dizziness, fatigue, dehydration, or persistent fever. The WHO advises seeking medical advice if these severe symptoms occur.

Is hMPV Similar to COVID-19?

While hMPV and COVID-19 share some symptoms, they differ in key ways. According to Dr. Harish Bhatia, Consultant Chest Specialist, hMPV often presents with common cold-like symptoms such as fever, runny nose, and sore throat, with gastrointestinal issues being rare. In contrast, COVID-19 typically causes a persistent dry cough, fever, fatigue, difficulty breathing, and a distinctive loss of taste and smell, along with gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and diarrhea.

Gut Health Impact

Dr. Shubham Vatsya, Senior Consultant in Gastroenterology, notes that while gastrointestinal problems are uncommon with hMPV, they can occur in severe cases, especially if systemic infection leads to dehydration. On the other hand, COVID-19 has a more significant impact on gastrointestinal health, potentially leading to issues such as GI bleeding, liver damage, and even persistent conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

hMPV Cases Decline in China

In China, hMPV cases are beginning to decline. Wang Liping, a researcher at the Chinese Center for Disease Control, reported a decrease in positive hMPV cases, particularly among children aged 14 and under in northern provinces. Despite initial concerns about overwhelming hospitals, the Chinese government has categorized the surge as part of an annual winter pattern, rather than a pandemic-like situation.