Is HMPV like any other common cold virus?

While HMPV shares similarities with other respiratory viruses like the flu or RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), it can cause more severe symptoms in vulnerable populations, such as infants, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Dr Manisha Mendiratta, Associate Director & Head of Pulmonology at Sarvodaya Hospital, stated, "HMPV usually produces mild to moderate flu-like symptoms but can become severe in people with low immunity."

Healthcare providers typically rely on nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT), including RT-PCR, and immunofluorescence or ELISA tests for accurate detection.

Is HMPV similar to Covid-19 virus?

HMPV and SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19 virus) are both respiratory pathogens but differ significantly in virology, transmission, and public health impact.

Both spread through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces and can cause symptoms like fever, cough, and shortness of breath. However, Covid-19 has a broader range of symptoms, including loss of taste and smell, and a higher potential for systemic complications.

Dr Srivatsa Lokeshwaran, Lead Consultant, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru, remarked, "It's premature to compare HMPV with Covid-19. HMPV has been in circulation for a long time and primarily affects children under five and adults over 65. While any virus can mutate and become more virulent, current data does not indicate pandemic potential for HMPV."

Another key difference lies in vaccination availability. While effective vaccines exist for Covid-19, no vaccine is currently available for HMPV. Besides this, antiviral treatments are limited for HMPV, unlike Covid-19, which has treatments like Paxlovid.