Recent reports from China about a surge in respiratory infections from HMPV, COVID-19 variants, and Influenza A have raised global concerns. Experts assure there's no need for panic, despite lingering memories of COVID-19
Published Jan 04, 2025 | 3:55 PM ⚊ Updated Jan 04, 2025 | 5:22 PM
Three out of every four cases in December 2023 were turning out to be JN.1. (Shutterstock)
Recent reports from China about a surge in respiratory infections caused by Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), COVID-19 variants, and Influenza A have raised global concerns. The shadow of COVID-19 still lingers in our collective memory, triggering a wave of anxiety whenever a new virus emerges. But experts reassure that right now there’s no need for a trauma-fuelled reaction to reports of respiratory infections in China.
Speaking to South First, Dr Rakesh Mishra, Director of TIGS, who played a key role in genomic surveillance of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in India during the COVID-19 pandemic said, “Looking at the identified pathogens or viruses that China is talking about, these are not anything new and therefore unlikely to cause major pandemic like we went through recently. I don’t see it as any major threat other than routine respiratory infections of known origin.”
Vinod Scaria, a senior scientist at the Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, Delhi, took to X to explain. “Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not a new virus. It causes mild infections, usually similar to the common cold or flu. The virus belongs to Pneumoviridae family, which also has other well-known human viruses like mumps and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The severity of the disease is similar to that of RSV. Severe disease is seen in children as well as elderly, apart from individuals with compromised immunity,” he said.
He also added, “The virus was first isolated in Netherlands in 2001 children with respiratory tract infections. Serological studies by the authors suggested that by the age of 5 years, virtually all children in the Netherlands have been exposed to human metapneumovirus. While in India, we seem to be eagerly keeping a close watch, my only point as a humble citizen is – how would we?”
“Without approved diagnostics and a pathway for accelerated approvals for diagnostics, we are staring at a wall – black or white is for you to decide,” he concluded.
🔴hMPV outbreak in China.
Should we be worried?
A short 🧵 explaining pic.twitter.com/LeG7guWg0l— Vinod Scaria (@vinodscaria) January 4, 2025
Doctors South First spoke to, explained that HMPV is a respiratory virus first identified in 2001 and belongs to the same family as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It is a common cause of respiratory illnesses worldwide, particularly in children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms of HMPV : HMPV symptoms resemble other respiratory infections and can range from mild to severe. The symptoms are:
Fever
Cough
Nasal congestion
Sore throat
Fatigue
In severe cases, it may lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia.
How Does HMPV Spread?
The virus spreads via respiratory droplets, contaminated surfaces, and close contact with infected individuals. Its activity peaks during winter and early spring.
While there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV. Supportive care such as rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications for symptoms is usually sufficient.
Preventive measures include:
Frequent handwashing.
Wearing masks if symptomatic.
Avoiding crowded places when unwell.
Clinicians are warning that though India should not panic about the virus, people should practice good respiratory hygiene.
Speaking to South First, Dr Sunil Kumar K, Lead Consultant – Interventional Pulmonology at Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru said, “Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China, five years after the COVID-19 crisis, is a significant public health concern. While HMPV shares transmission characteristics with COVID-19, such as spread through respiratory droplets, it is generally less severe. However, co-circulation with other respiratory pathogens, including influenza and Mycoplasma pneumonia, as reported in China, can complicate clinical outcomes and pose additional challenges to public health systems.”
Voicing similar concerns Dr TJ Srikanta, Paediatric Pulmonologist at Aster Hospitals in Bengaluru, told South First that the situation in China is definitely a concern as Human Metapneumovirus is a Respiratory virus and thrives in cold climatic condition.
“Metapneumovirus is like another Respiratory virus causing flu like infection, but yes it can cause much severe disease especially in preterm kids and elderly. As there is no specific antiviral or vaccine to treat and prevent this respectively, the onus is on everyone to follow Respiratory hygiene,” he explained.
Meanwhile, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has confirmed that no cases of Human Metapneumovirus have been reported in India.
Dr Atul Goyal, NCDC director, explained that HMPV closely resembles common cold viruses and typically causes flu-like symptoms, particularly in children and the elderly. He advised the public to follow standard precautions, such as avoiding close contact when unwell, and reassured that regular cold or fever medications are generally sufficient.
“There’s no cause for alarm,” Dr Goyal emphasised, adding that there has been no significant rise in respiratory outbreaks. He also assured that hospitals are well-prepared with adequate supplies and beds to handle any winter surges.
While vigilance remains important, experts agree that HMPV currently poses no immediate threat in India.
Amid reports of a potential outbreak of viral fever and pneumonia in China, Kerala Health Minister Veena George on Saturday, 4 January, announced that the state is closely monitoring the situation to ensure public health safety.
She emphasised that there is no immediate cause for concern, but urged caution, particularly among vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions.
The minister identified three potential causes for the respiratory infections in China: Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), variants of Covid-19, and Influenza A.
While HMPV, first discovered in 2001, is relatively unknown, it is considered a common virus linked to respiratory infections, particularly in children. She explained that Kerala has the capacity to detect HMPV through advanced virology and public health labs.
Regarding Covid-19, new genetic variants remain a concern, though vaccinated individuals are less likely to experience severe outcomes. The state is prepared to manage any cluster outbreaks.
Influenza A, though unlikely to cause a pandemic at present, is also under surveillance.
Minister George urged the public to wear masks if symptomatic, avoid sending sick children to school, and maintain caution. She assured that the state’s surveillance systems are robust and ready to tackle any emerging threats.
Telangana Director of Public Health on Saturday, 4 January said that so far, no case of Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is reported in the state.
The Health Department has analysed the data of prevailing respiratory infections within the state. There is no substantial increase in December 2024 compared to 2023.
While experts stress that India should not panic, they say there is a definite need for robust surveillance. They add that public awareness is vital in managing this outbreak.
Instead of succumbing to panic, the focus should remain on awareness, caution, and continued strengthening of public health infrastructure. Simple steps today can prevent larger issues tomorrow. India has weathered similar challenges before and is equipped to do so again.
“Learning from the COVID-19 pandemic, early detection, transparent communication, and adherence to preventive measures are key to mitigating the impact of HMPV and safeguarding public health,” Dr Sunil Kumar said.
Dr Rakesh Mishra warns that “such pathogens always mutate and new surprises can come. Overall, I don’t think this is a problem for India to panic, but we have to watch how it developed in China. More so because the information that comes out from there is also not hundred percent clear.”
He suggests India’s strategy should be to wait and observe, noting that in the coming days, it will become clearer whether further action is necessary.
(Edited by Ananya Rao)
