Rumors around the world link the HMP virus to COVID-19. Is HMPV the new COVID or HMPV is the new pandemic risk? We will discuss this new, spreading virus. Some people feel fear after listening, while others are excited about lockdowns or holidays, and want to enjoy this winter again at home. In this article, we will reveal the truth behind these rumors. First, we need to know about the HMP virus, its symptoms, and how it spreads. We will also highlight how we manage the risks of spreading the HMP virus.
What is HMPV?
The full form of HMPV is Human metapneumovirus. The name of this virus is based on symptoms related to pneumonia. The symptoms of this virus are cold, cough, and flu. But if the symptoms are not cured they lead to severity like bronchitis or pneumonia. This virus is similar to the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and was discovered in 2001 when its first case was reported in the Netherlands.
How does it Spread
The HMPV is not a novel virus. Understanding the history and origin of HMPV, it is transmitted by contact with effected people and as with other respiratory disorders, HMPV spreads through respiratory droplet coughing, sneezing, and other secretions. People with weakened immune systems are at high risk of catching this virus.
HMPV vs COVID
It is difficult to distinguish both viruses being linked with respiratory disease. However, COVID has a wide range of symptoms and severity. The main difference between them is their transmitted rate. COVID-19 transmitted highly globally while the HMPV cases were not reported as much as COVID-19 at the start. The causes of transmission are the same in both viruses. However, COVID-19 was a novel virus while HMPV has been around for several decades and circulates in people in winter and spring. The HMPV death rate is lower as compared to COVID.
Check also: Discover the Best Herbal Teas for Stress Relief and Relaxation.
What do Experts say?
The HMPV virus is reported in northern China and spread among young children. The China’s Centre for Disease Control (CDC) has announced the precautions to follow.
The symptoms of HMPV are quite similar to a cold or flu, and it is one of several viruses often lumped under a broad definition of the “common cold (Include Group of Viruses)”, said Stephens. It can cause severe disease that’s why I am concerned about precautions and people know it well said Prof Paul Griffin.
“In the past few years, we have been good at precautions but now we do follow the precautions less, and we are seeing the virus-resistivity. Wearing a mask going outside should be included in precautions. The treatment of HPMV has cured the symptoms while the diagnosis test is done by laboratory testing such as PCR” Experts say.
Managing the Risk of HMPV
The HMPV is maintained by doing hygiene practice and following the below tips:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water or sanitize with alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Cover your nose and mouth with your elbow when you sneeze or cough.
- Avoid being around people when you or they are sick with a cold.
- Consider wearing a mask if you’re sick and stay at home.
- Aware the other people about the virus and guide them about precautions.
- When you Catch the symptoms described above, seek medical attention to treat symptoms.
The Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that shares many symptoms with cough, cold, and flu. While it is not a new virus, its spread has raised concern in some regions, particularly with reports from northern China. However, it is essential to understand that HMPV is not a novel threat like COVID-19. Unlike the global pandemic caused by COVID-19, HMPV has been circulating for decades and primarily affects people during the winter and spring seasons.
Managing the risk of HMPV involves common-sense practices: handwashing, wearing masks when sick, and avoiding close contact with others when exhibiting symptoms. It is crucial to stay informed and take necessary precautions to prevent transmission, just as we have done with COVID-19. Ensuring that we protect ourselves and those around us during the colder months.
