Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is an RNA virus. Belongs to the paramyxoviridae family, similar to RSV. It occurs in late winter and spring. Reinfection can occur throughout life. First detected in 2001, it has been there for more than 60 years. It is a respiratory virus. It affects children less than 5 years of age, older people, and those who are immunocompromised, asthmatics, and those on immunosuppressive drugs.

Main symptoms are respiratory complications, fever, common cold, mucus hyperproduction, and epithelial hyperresponsiveness. Clinical manifestations are rhinitis, cough, fever, and wheezing. The incubation period is 5 to 7 days; virus shedding occurs then. It is usually self-limiting; hospitalisation is low. It spreads by droplets, aerosol, and close contact. One should maintain at least a distance of 6 feet to avoid contamination.

Diagnosis is done by RT-PCR and multiplex PCR from nasopharyngeal swabs or aspirates. Treatment is supportive, as with other viruses. There is no specific vaccine. Management is supportive, like hydration and antipyretics for fever. Oxygen therapy for hypoxia, mechanical ventilation in severe cases. Inhaled bronchodilators or corticosteroids may be considered for wheezing, though their effectiveness is inconsistent.

Good hand hygiene is essential. Avoiding close contact with infected individuals and disinfecting surfaces frequently are the main modalities of safeguarding. Isolation of symptomatic patients in a healthcare setting is needed.

It is not a new virus to come out of China. Surging HMPV cases in Northern China have prompted some online alarm, but experts believe the risk of another COVID-like pandemic is low. Health authorities across the country should remain vigilant about respiratory illnesses, particularly in light of the recent surge in HMPV cases in China. Infected children should not be sent to school during illness. Those with respiratory symptoms should definitely use masks.

The writer is a gerontologist and a public health specialist. E-mail: zubairkhaledjoy@gmail.com