The Impact of the HMPV Outbreak in China on Bangladesh

HMPV Outbreak:

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that belongs to the Metapneumovirus genus within the Paramyxoviridae family. It was first identified in 2001, and is known to cause respiratory infections in humans. HMPV is particularly significant because it affects people of all ages, though it is most dangerous for young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. HMPV accounted for 6.2% of positive respiratory disease tests in China and 5.4% of hospitalizations resulting from respiratory infections during December 16–22, 2024. As reported by the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CCDC), these numbers exceeded rates of COVID-19, rhinovirus, and adenovirus during the same time.

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that usually causes symptoms similar to a cold. You might cough or wheeze, have a runny nose or a sore throat.

Key Facts about HMPV:

1. Transmission:

   • HMPV spreads primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
   • It can also spread through direct contact with surfaces contaminated by the virus.

2. Symptoms:

   • In mild cases, HMPV causes cold-like symptoms, such as:
     • Runny nose
     • Cough
     • Fever
     • Shortness of breath
     • Sore throat
   • In more severe cases, it can cause:
     • Bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lungs)
     • Pneumonia
     • Wheezing and difficulty breathing

3. At-Risk Groups:

   • Infants and young children: They can develop severe respiratory distress, especially if they have underlying conditions.
   • Older adults: Especially those with chronic health issues (e.g., heart disease, lung disease).
   • Immunocompromised individuals: People with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to complications.

4. Seasonality:

   • HMPV infections are more common in the winter and early spring, similar to other respiratory viruses like influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

5. Diagnosis:

   • Diagnosis of HMPV is typically made using molecular tests like PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to detect the virus in respiratory samples (e.g., throat swabs).
   • In some cases, it may be identified through viral cultures or rapid antigen tests, although these are less commonly used.

6. Treatment:

   • There is no specific antiviral treatment for HMPV.
   • Treatment typically focuses on managing symptoms, such as fever and cough, and providing supportive care, especially in severe cases where hospitalization may be necessary.
   • Severe cases may require oxygen therapy, ventilators, or other respiratory support.

7. Prevention:

   • As with many respiratory viruses, preventing HMPV infection involves practicing good hygiene:
     • Regular handwashing
     • Avoiding close contact with infected individuals
     • Covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
   • There is currently no vaccine available for HMPV.

Relation to Other Respiratory Viruses:

• HMPV is part of the same viral family as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and both cause similar respiratory illnesses, especially in young children and older adults. However, HMPV tends to be less well-known compared to RSV, despite causing comparable clinical symptoms.

Although HMPV is not as commonly discussed as other respiratory viruses like influenza or RSV, it is a significant cause of illness, particularly in vulnerable populations.

HMPV Outbreak in Bangladesh:

HMPV was first detected in Bangladesh in 2017′ Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been identified as a significant cause of respiratory infections in Bangladesh, particularly among children with acute respiratory illnesses. While it may not be as widely recognized as other respiratory viruses like influenza or RSV, HMPV is known to circulate during the colder months, contributing to hospitalizations due to conditions like pneumonia and bronchiolitis. Surveillance studies in Bangladesh indicate that HMPV often co-circulates with other viral pathogens, making it an important focus for ongoing research and public health monitoring

The Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) has said that the people of the country have nothing to be worried about the risks of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) at the moment.

IEDCR Director Professor Dr Tahmina Shirin told many people have been detected with the virus, but there is no history of complications, she said, adding that therefore, there is nothing to be worried about with the HMPV virus at the moment.

HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) outbreak in January 2025. However, it’s important to note that respiratory virus outbreaks, including those caused by HMPV, often follow seasonal patterns, typically peaking in winter months (in the Northern Hemisphere) or during specific periods of increased respiratory infections.

Note:  For other outbreak &  real-time data and more detailed information about any ongoing outbreaks, it is advisable to consult official health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), or national health authorities like Bangladesh’s Ministry of Health or China’s National Health Commission. These organizations regularly release reports on emerging outbreaks and viral surveillance data.