hMPV: A Rising Health Concern That Experts Say Isn’t Cause for Alarm
Covid-19 2.0?
Several countries, including the US, UK, India, and several other Asian countries are reporting a rise in human metapneumovirus (hMPV) cases, with the US recently seeing a doubling of infections. This has sparked global concern, especially amid rising respiratory infections in China. However, experts reassure the public that HMPV is not a cause for alarm and emphasize that fears of lockdowns are unwarranted.
According to information from the Cleveland Clinic website, human metapneumovirus (HMPV) typically causes cold-like symptoms and primarily affects the upper respiratory tract. In some cases, it can lead to pneumonia, asthma flare-ups, or worsen COPD. Infections are more common in winter and early spring. Most people contract HMPV by age 5. Repeat infections can occur but are usually mild.
As of December 29, 2024, China has reported a typical seasonal increase in respiratory infections, including influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and hMPV. Influenza remains the leading cause of respiratory illness, except in children aged 5-14, where mycoplasma pneumoniae is more prevalent. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), SARS-CoV-2 activity is low, although there has been a slight increase in severe Covid-19 cases.
The incidence of influenza-like illness (ILI) is rising in both northern and southern provinces, following seasonal patterns. While southern provinces report lower ILI levels compared to the past two years, northern provinces show similar trends to previous years.
Current rates of respiratory infections, including hMPV, are within expected seasonal ranges. Hospitals are not overwhelmed, and in fact, healthcare utilization is lower than last year, with no emergency responses triggered. Authorities have issued public health messages to encourage preventive measures and reduce the impact of these infections.
Malaysia: No evidence hMPV poses global threat
In 2024, the National Public Health Laboratory and ministry hospital laboratories reported 327 samples testing positive for hMPV, up from 225 in 2023. Despite this increase, experts say there is no need for panic.
Dr. Vinod Balasubramaniam, a molecular virologist and associate professor at Monash University, explained that hMPV lacks the high transmissibility and asymptomatic spread of Covid-19. While China is seeing seasonal spikes in hMPV, RSV, and influenza, he stated there is no evidence these pose a global pandemic threat.
Dr. Vinod said that hMPV and other respiratory viruses already circulate in Malaysia, and incoming tourists are unlikely to introduce new pathogens unless detected through surveillance. Unlike Sars-CoV-2, hMPV does not spread extensively through asymptomatic carriers, and its severity is generally manageable in healthy individuals.
He identified high-risk groups for severe hMPV infection, including infants under one year, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Though hMPV typically causes mild to moderate illness, it can lead to severe conditions like bronchiolitis or pneumonia in vulnerable populations. Infections are most common in late winter and spring and spread through direct contact with respiratory secretions or contaminated surfaces.
To prevent infection, Dr. Vinod recommended regular handwashing, avoiding face-touching with unwashed hands, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, cleaning frequently touched surfaces, and isolating when symptomatic. He also urged health authorities to educate the public on hMPV and ensure healthcare systems are prepared to manage increased respiratory infections with adequate resources and protocols.
hPMV on the rise but normal
The WHO reports that respiratory infections typically rise in the Northern Hemisphere during winter due to seasonal viruses like influenza, RSV, hMPV, and mycoplasma pneumoniae, which can strain healthcare systems.
Currently, ILIs and acute respiratory infections (ARIs) are above normal levels in some countries, following seasonal trends. Influenza activity is high in Europe, parts of Africa, Central America, the Caribbean, and Asia, with the dominant virus varying by region. This is typical for the season, unlike in 2020-2021 when influenza activity dropped during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sars-CoV-2 incidence is low after a busy summer, according to surveillance and wastewater monitoring. RSV activity is declining in most of the Americas and Europe but rising in North America. Other respiratory viruses, like hMPV, are also increasing in some areas, in line with usual winter trends.
Philippines: hPMV not a new virus
The Department of Health (DOH) this week reported 284 cases of hMPV in 2024, comprising 5.8% of the 4,921 positive samples tested for respiratory viruses.
Despite the low incidence, the DOH assures the public that hPMV infections are being monitored as part of the country’s respiratory illness surveillance.
The data, from Jan. 1 to Dec. 21, 2024, includes 10 hMPV-positive cases out of 339 samples tested in December.
The DOH highlighted that HMPV is detected sporadically throughout the year, with no unusual patterns or clustering observed.
Stressing that it is not a new virus, DOH explained that HMPV, a respiratory virus discovered in 2001, typically causes mild upper respiratory symptoms such as cough, fever, and nasal congestion.
Severe cases, though rare, may lead to bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly among infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.
Meanwhile, the agency also reported a decline in overall ILI cases, recording 179,227 in 2024—a 17 percent drop compared to 216,786 cases in 2023.
Other top causative agents of ILI include Rhinovirus, Enterovirus, and Influenza A.
The decline is attributed to improved health-seeking behaviors and better preparations by the healthcare sector.
ILI is often characterized by symptoms such as cough, colds, and fever, and can be caused by various respiratory viruses.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa emphasized the importance of preventive measures like proper nutrition, exercise, and hygiene to combat respiratory illnesses, especially during the cooler Northeast Monsoon season.
Indonesia: Be vigilant, follow supportive measures against infections
Indonesia’s Health Ministry reported no cases of hMPV and urged the public to stay vigilant and calm, emphasizing preventive measures. Ministry spokesperson Widyawati stressed the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, washing hands regularly, and wearing masks in public to reduce the risk of infectious diseases.
The ministry is closely monitoring the hMPV outbreak in China and other countries, increasing vigilance at entry points by screening international travelers with ILI symptoms. Widyawati explainedthat while hMPV poses little threat to healthy adults, it is more dangerous for children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, including individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes, respiratory disorders, and heart disease.
Although no vaccine or specific treatment for hMPV exists, supportive measures such as rehydration, fever management, and adequate rest can relieve symptoms. The ministry advises anyone with respiratory symptoms to seek medical attention immediately and to stay informed through official updates.
Category: Top Story
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