- By Priyanka Munshi
- Wed, 08 Jan 2025 05:50 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus primarily affecting children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Belonging to the family Paramyxoviridae, HMPV was first identified in 2001 and has since become one of the most common causes of respiratory tract infections (RTIs) globally. Highly contagious, hMPV spreads through respiratory droplets, direct contact, and fomites. It can cause illnesses ranging from mild, cold-like symptoms to severe conditions such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis.
Although HMPV can infect anyone, it poses a serious risk to vulnerable populations, including young children (particularly infants and toddlers), older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immunity. Recently, its spread has raised global concern. In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Kuldeep Kumar Grover, Head of Critical Care and Pulmonology at CK Birla Hospital in Gurugram, discussed how hMPV disproportionately affects children and the elderly.
Impact Of HMPV On Children
HMPV causes severe lower respiratory tract infections in infants and toddlers, including:
- Bronchiolitis: Inflammation of the small airways in the lungs, leading to breathing difficulties, wheezing, and rapid breathing.
- Pneumonia: A lung infection causing fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.
- Weakened Immune Systems: Young children have underdeveloped immune systems, making them less capable of resisting HMPV, thereby increasing the risk of severe disease.
- Long-Term Complications: In some cases, severe HMPV infections in children can result in long-term respiratory issues, such as recurrent wheezing or asthma.
Impact Of HMPV On The Elder People
- Increased Risk Of Severe Illness: Older adults, especially those above 65, are more susceptible to severe HMPV infections due to age-related immune decline (immunosenescence) and the presence of comorbidities.
- Worsening Of Underlying Conditions: HMPV can exacerbate pre-existing respiratory conditions such as COPD or asthma in the elderly.
- Higher Risk Of Complications: Older adults infected with HMPV face an increased risk of severe complications, including pneumonia and hospitalization.
Dr. Kuldeep Kumar Grover's Advice
- Seek Prompt Medical Care: If a child or elderly individual exhibits severe symptoms of HMPV, such as difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, or bluish lips, immediate medical attention should be sought.
- Preventive Measures: Good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals, can reduce the spread of HMPV and protect vulnerable groups.