Not a new virus, HMPV detection has improved due to heightened surveillance, better diagnostics: CIDS

Not a new virus, HMPV detection has improved due to heightened surveillance, better diagnostics: CIDS

Reiterating that Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not a new virus and there was no cause for alarm, the Clinical Infectious Diseases Society (CIDS) has stated that advancements in diagnostic technologies have improved the detection of HMPV in recent years. The apparent increase in reported cases is likely due to heightened surveillance and better diagnostics rather than an actual rise in infections, it said.

Issuing a statement to clarify facts and to provide reassurance to the public and healthcare community, George M. Varghese, president of CIDS, said that HMPV was first identified in 2001 in the Netherlands, and is closely related to Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). It is a well-recognised cause of respiratory infections, particularly in children and the elderly. It accounts for approximately two to eight per cent of community respiratory viral infections globally.

Elaborating on the population at risk, CIDS said that HMPV is the second most common cause of respiratory tract infections in children after RSV. Repeated infections are common during children. Most hospitalised children with HMPV have underlying conditions such as cardiopulmonary diseases, immunodeficiencies or prematurity. It was a significant cause of respiratory illness in older adults (elderly aged above 65), particularly those with chronic conditions such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, asthma or malignancies. Patients with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for severe disease including pneumonia.

Advancements in diagnostic technologies, particularly multiple PCR and film array panels for respiratory viruses, have improved the detection of HMPV in recent years. CIDS said that there is no current evidence to suggest significant genetic changes in HMPV that could lead to increased transmissibility or severity. Population immunity levels remain stable.

CIDS outlined preventive measures for reducing transmission of HMPV and other respiratory viruses: practising cough etiquette, washing hands frequently with soap and water, wearing masks in crowded or high-risk settings particularly during respiratory virus seasons.

While reports from China indicate an increase in HMPV cases, this reflects the seasonal nature of respiratory infections and improved surveillance, not an outbreak. Similar patterns have been observed globally and the virus is not new to India. Public awareness, good hygiene practices and continued surveillance are critical for managing the virus effectively, it said.

Healthcare providers should consider HMPV in the differential diagnosis of respiratory illness, especially in high-risk populations and use available diagnostic tools and management measures appropriately.