Reports of a recent outbreak of human metapneumovirus (hMPV) in China have sparked concern. However, health experts are encouraging everyone to stay calm, emphasizing there is no cause for alarm.
Unlike the global upheaval caused by Covid-19 in 2020, hMPV is neither new nor dangerous. This respiratory virus has been recognized for over two decades and is now considered a common seasonal virus worldwide.
Dr. Ahmed Kalebi, a pathologist and CEO of Dr. Kalebi Labs in Nairobi, reassures that hMPV’s presence is not a novel development.
“This virus has been circulating since 2001 and has become one of the seasonal flu viruses seen globally,” he explains. “Unlike SARS-CoV-2, which was a new and highly virulent pathogen, most people encounter hMPV early in life, usually by the age of five. This early exposure helps build natural immunity.”
While vigilance and basic hygiene remain essential, there is no indication that hMPV poses a significant new threat.
Experts continue to monitor the situation closely while advising everyone to focus on maintaining good respiratory health practices.
What you should know about HMPV
Human metapneumovirus was first identified in 2001 by Dutch researchers. It belongs to the same family as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and primarily causes respiratory tract infections.
The virus is common among children under five and older adults. In healthy individuals, hMPV typically causes mild symptoms similar to a cold or flu, such as fever, cough, nasal congestion, and fatigue.
However, Dr. Kalebi notes that severe cases can occur, particularly among infants, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
“Severe illness can include pneumonia or acute respiratory distress,” he said. Infants under one year are particularly vulnerable, accounting for up to 74 percent of hMPV cases.
The outbreak in China has drawn attention because of its timing and the increase in reported cases. But Dr. Kalebi emphasizes that this uptick is not unusual.
“HMPV and RSV tend to have peak transmission during certain times of the year. The rise in cases likely coincides with seasonal patterns,” he said. Seasonal peaks for hMPV typically occur during cooler months or periods of low humidity.
Looking ahead, ongoing research into hMPV and similar respiratory viruses aims to better understand their behavior and impact.
Vaccines for hMPV are currently under development, offering hope for increased protection, particularly for high-risk groups such as young children, older adults, and those with compromised immune systems.
Preventive measures, including handwashing, avoiding crowded spaces during peak seasons, and wearing masks when necessary, remain effective strategies to reduce the spread of respiratory infections.
Dr Kalebi cautions against linking the rise in hMPV cases in China to the possibility of a new pandemic. “There is no need to worry about hMPV to the extent of Covid-19,” he says. “Most people have already been exposed to it, and herd immunity exists globally.”
For those concerned about potential hMPV infections, advanced testing options are available. Multiplex PCR tests, which detect multiple respiratory viruses, including hMPV, RSV, influenza, and SARS-CoV-2, are the good standard.
Kalebi points out that these tests can confirm the presence of hMPV using respiratory samples, such as throat swabs, with quick turnaround times.
At his lab, hMPV can be tested within two hours. “We offer multiplex PCR testing for hMPV and other respiratory viruses. It’s accessible to walk-in patients and referred samples,” he notes.
Rapid antigen tests for hMPV exist but are not widely used or validated for regular diagnostic purposes in most countries, including Kenya.
Currently, there are no vaccines or specific antiviral drugs for hMPV. Treatment focuses on supportive care, such as managing fever and ensuring adequate hydration.
Most cases resolve on their own, especially in older children and healthy adults. Severe cases, particularly in infants under six months, require close medical attention to prevent complications.
This highlights the importance of monitoring vulnerable populations and seeking medical care promptly when severe symptoms arise.
