UAE medical experts say residents need not panic over China’s surge in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases, a common respiratory illness that has recently overwhelmed hospitals across the Asian nation.
While social media footage of masked crowds in Chinese hospitals has stirred memories of the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare professionals emphasise that HMPV is a well-known seasonal virus that typically causes mild to moderate symptoms in most patients.
But, what is HMPV?
“HMPV (human metapneumovirus) is one of several pathogens similar to viruses like Respiratory Syncytial Virus or RSV that circulate the world each year causing respiratory illness,” Dr. Saheer Sainalabdeen, Specialist Pulmonologist at Medeor Hospital, Dubai told Arabian Business.
However, Dr. Sainalabdeen explained that HMPV is a common virus, which was first identified in 2001 in Netherlands. “[HMPV is] so common that most people get infected while they are still children and may experience several infections in their lifetimes. In colder countries, HMPV can have an annual season, much like the flu, while in places closer to the Equator, it circulates at lower levels all year long,” he said, adding that HMPV has been known to infect people for more than six decades, affecting both the upper and lower respiratory system.
While anyone can contract HMPV, severe cases are more common in children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems, he said.
Symptoms of HMPV
According to Dr. Jyothish George, Director of Homecare Services and Vaccination at Prime Healthcare Group, symptoms are similar to that of a common cold.
“Cough, wheezing, runny nose, sore throat, fever, etc. – most cases are mild but young children and adults over 65 and those who have weak immune system are at a higher risk for serious illness,” Dr. George told Arabian Business.
Dr. Sainalabdeen further added that clinical symptoms of HMPV infection may progress to bronchitis or pneumonia and are similar to other viruses that cause upper and lower respiratory infections.
“The estimated incubation period is 3 to 6 days, and the median duration of illness can vary depending upon severity but is similar to other respiratory infections caused by viruses,” he said.
Should UAE residents be worried?
Prime Healthcare Group’s Dr. George said UAE residents do not “need to be worried or panic while travelling,” and advised the following precautions:
- Washing hands often with soap and water;
- Cover your nose and mouth when you cough;
- Avoid being around people who are sick with cold;
- Consider wearing a mask if you are sick and you cannot avoid being around people;
- Avoid touching face, eyes and nose;
- Avoid sharing food and utensils.
Echoing the sentiment, Dr. Sainalabdeen advised residents to opt for digital check-ins when travelling, monitor your health daily for symptoms such as fever, cough or fatigue, keeping a thermometer or oximeter handy for self-checks. Don a high-quality mask, maintain social distance where possible, and choose lounges for waiting.
“Keep your hands clean by washing them with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. When soap isn’t available, use a hand sanitiser containing at least 60 per cent alcohol. Carry hygiene essentials like sanitisers, disinfectant wipes, and tissues to clean your hands and disinfect frequently touched items, such as tray tables and armrests,” he said, adding that residents can practice avoiding touching common surfaces like handrails, door handles, elevator buttons, or table tops.
“Use your elbow, a tissue, or gloves to handle such surfaces, when necessary. Additionally, carry a stylus or use knuckles instead of fingertips for touchscreen interactions. Reducing surface contact lowers the chances of transferring viruses to your hands,” he said.
Are there any procedures to treat HMPV?
“Currently, there is no specific antiviral therapy to treat HMPV and no vaccine to prevent HMPV. Medical care is supportive. However, we need not be worried about travelling to countries with cases of HMPV infection,” Dr. Sainalabdeen said.
Dr. George further added that most patients recover well with basic symptom management at home, without requiring hospitalisation.
“If there is high fever or difficulty in breathing medical help must be sought. Follow instructions of the UAE health authorities who always take all necessary steps to safeguard the health of the public,” he concluded.
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