Human Metapneumovirus : The Corona epidemic shook the world, and its horrifying memories are still fresh. Now, a new virus in China Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) The outbreak has come to light. According to media reports, due to this virus, the crowd of patients in China's hospitals has increased, and the number of deaths is becoming scary. In such a situation, the question arises whether this virus can take the form of a new epidemic like Corona? Let us know about this virus in detail.

What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?

HMPV is an RNA virus, which Pneumoviridae Family Belongs to the metapneumovirus class.

• It was first discovered by Dutch scientists in 2001.
• It comes from the same virus family as pneumonia And other respiratory infections spread.
• HMPV more commonly affects children, the elderly and people with weak immunity.

types of infection

• Upper respiratory infection: Cold, cough, sore throat.
• Lower Respiratory Infection: Bronchitis, pneumonia.

Difference between HMPV and Corona: Is it equally dangerous?

Although HMPV and coronavirus both cause respiratory illnesses, there are several differences.

1. difference in symptoms

• Corona virus:
  • Fever, cough, difficulty in breathing, fatigue.
  • Pneumonia and ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome) in severe cases.
• HMPV virus:
  • Cold, cough, sore throat, mild fatigue.
  • Usually mild symptoms, which feel like a common cold.

2. threat level

• Corona virus:
  • Mutates rapidly and creates new variants, which can be more deadly.
  • Cause serious illnesses and death.
• HMPV virus:
  • Low mutation rate, making it less lethal.
  • Mild symptoms, and more likely to recover normally.

3. method of spread

• Both viruses spread through air, but the infectivity of HMPV is considered less than that of Corona.

Does the risk of HMPV increase in winter?

The winter season is favorable for the spread of viruses, and HMPV is no exception.

Connection to winter season:

• in winter immune system weak Due to which the body becomes more sensitive to infection.
• Symptoms like cold and cough are common in this season, which can promote HMPV infection.
• People stay close to each other in closed environments and cold, due to which the virus can spread easily.

Why is there increasing concern about HMPV?

1. Increased pressure on hospitals

According to media reports, a large number of patients are being admitted to hospitals in China, many of whom are in critical condition.

2. Children and the elderly are at greater risk

People with weakened immunity, especially children and the elderly, are more susceptible to HMPV.

3. Fear of the past

After the Corona epidemic, fear and caution about every new virus is natural.

How can HMPV infection be prevented?

1. Personal Hygiene:

• regularly wash hands.
• while coughing and sneezing Cover mouth and nose.

2. Strengthen the immune system:

• Eat nutritious food.
• Get enough sleep and exercise.

3. Extra caution in winter:

• Protect yourself from cold.
• Stay away from crowded places.

4. Do not ignore the symptoms of infection:

• If cold-like symptoms appear, contact a doctor immediately.
• Seek immediate medical attention if you have fever, difficulty breathing, or other serious symptoms.

Could HMPV become the next pandemic?

Although HMPV infection is increasing, experts believe that it will not take the form of an epidemic like Corona.

• Its infection cases and mutation potential are much less than Corona.
• However, it can prove serious for people with weak immunity.