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In light of recent reports of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in India, former Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) scientist Dr. Raman Gangakhedkar clarified on Monday that HMPV is not deadly, and there is no evidence to suggest severe transmission or mortality associated with the virus. The country has reported three cases, two in Karnataka and one in Gujarat, which has raised some concerns among the public. However, Dr. Gangakhedkar emphasized that infections caused by HMPV are typically mild.
HMPV, which primarily affects young children under the age of five, has a global prevalence rate of about 4%, making it relatively uncommon among severe respiratory illnesses like influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Dr. Gangakhedkar explained that the virus typically causes common cold-like symptoms such as cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath for a duration of 4 to 5 days.
“It’s definitely not deadly,” said Gangakhedkar, “and while it can sometimes cause pneumonitis-like illnesses, there have been no recorded mortality rates associated with HMPV thus far.”
Dr. Gangakhedkar also noted that HMPV could potentially cause more severe symptoms in specific populations, such as young children and older adults above the age of 65. However, he reassured the public that the virus does not pose a significant risk to overall public health.
Addressing the possible connection between the recent cases in India and a reported outbreak in China, Dr. Gangakhedkar said there was no evidence to suggest that the virus in India was linked to the cases in China. He also pointed out the lack of information regarding the virus’s phylogenetics from China, and he speculated that the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) might soon conduct genome sequencing to investigate the virus’s strain further.
The scientist urged for continued research into HMPV, particularly its potential to evolve and whether it might cause more severe disease or contribute to higher mortality rates in the future. He also emphasized the importance of understanding changes in the virus’s behavior, particularly in how it might interact with humans in the context of recurrent infections.
HMPV was first identified in 2001 and belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, along with RSV. Gangakhedkar referenced a study conducted by the National Institute of Virology (NIV) between 2006 and 2008, which included over 16,000 patients with acute respiratory infections. The study found that the prevalence of HMPV was approximately 3.4%, with a higher rate of 2.6% among those admitted with severe respiratory conditions.
This evidence suggests that HMPV has been circulating in India for some time without causing significant public health problems, particularly lung morbidity in children. According to Gangakhedkar, the virus tends to resurface during the winter months, with a history of reinfection providing partial protection and reducing the severity of future infections.
The epidemiologist also offered public health advice, recommending that parents avoid sending sick children to school if they exhibit cold-like symptoms. For adults, he advised practicing COVID-19 etiquette, including wearing masks and maintaining hygiene, to limit the spread of the virus.
In conclusion, while the recent HMPV cases in India have raised some concerns, Dr. Gangakhedkar reassured the public that the virus is generally not deadly, and its effects are mild for most people. Nonetheless, ongoing surveillance and research into the virus’s behavior remain crucial.
