These days, there is a stir in the world about a new virus. The name of this virus is Human Metapneumovirus, which is known as HMPV. Patients infected with this virus can develop conditions ranging from common symptoms like cold to pneumonia and bronchiolitis. This virus can be considered dangerous for children, the elderly and people with weak immunity. However, this virus is completely different from COVID-19. But some symptoms and prevention methods are similar to COVID. Due to which people are linking it to COVID-19. Had a special conversation with Dr. RS Mishra, Principal Director and Head, Department of Internal Medicine (Fortis Escort Hospital, Delhi) and learned how different is HMPV and COVID-19?

According to the doctor, both the HMP virus and COVID-19 (caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus) are respiratory viruses, but there are several key differences between them.

How different is HMPV from COVID-19?

Virus Family – HMPV belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family, while SARS-CoV-2 is a coronavirus.

Incubation Time- The incubation time period for COVID-19 is around 2-14 days, while for HMPV it is around 3-6 days.

Severity and mortality - COVID-19 has shown high mortality rates, particularly in older adults and people with underlying health conditions. In contrast, HMPV causes mild illness in healthy adults, although it can cause severe illness in people with weakened immunity, such as young children and the elderly.

Global spread – COVID-19 has caused a global pandemic, leading to widespread societal impact, lockdowns and significant loss of life. HMPV, despite being a serious health concern, has not caused similar widespread outbreaks and is largely a seasonal virus with localised outbreaks.

Vaccine availability – Vaccines for COVID-19 have been developed and widely distributed, while no vaccine yet exists for HMPV.

Is HMPV a virus like Corona?

Both HMPV and SARS-CoV-2 spread primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Their symptoms are also very similar in that both can cause symptoms such as fever, cough and shortness of breath. Which can lead to more severe respiratory conditions including pneumonia. Like COVID-19, preventive measures such as wearing masks, keeping hands clean and avoiding close contact with infected persons are effective for both viruses to prevent HMPV.

Although this virus is completely different from Covid-19 and cannot be considered as dangerous, it is very important to be cautious.