In December 2019, news broke in China about a new coronavirus, which we know today as COVID-19We were largely oblivious to the storm that was going on. Even as reports of mass infections emerged during January, fear had not completely gone away. Then came January 27, when India recorded its first case of COVID-19. Patient Zero was kind of a wake-up call but life went on, almost as if we could end it if we wanted to. By March, the inevitable happened and a pandemic was declared. The first wave came, affecting mostly the elderly, but the second wave, the Delta variant, devastated the entire country. This led to mass casualties and deaths, until it was taken over by a milder variant, Omicron, which unlike Delta was only affecting the upper respiratory tract. Omicron mutated but over time we adjusted and learned to live with the virus.

Fast forward to now, reports of another virus emerging from China have rekindled that familiar fear and uncertainty. However this time it is different. We have been on the COVID journey before, a journey that started in China and changed the world. But here’s the biggest difference that many are overlooking: While COVID-19 was a new virus, hmpv (Human metapneumovirus) has been around for decades. This is important to know as we prepare ourselves for what’s to come. Dr. Sameer Bhati, Director, Star Imaging & Path Lab Pvt. Ltd. Ltd. explains, “HMPV is not a new virus and has been around for a very long time. It commonly causes respiratory infections, especially in young children and older adults. HMPV is moderately contagious, it spreads when an infected person coughs. And spread through respiratory droplets when sneezing.” Like flu and the common cold, it can also be spread by touching contaminated surfaces.

Will HMPV mutate and become more virulent?

Just as COVID mutated to change its effect and become more infectious, will HMPV follow the same path? Dr. Bhati explains, “Unlike COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, HMPV has not shown the same pattern of repeated mutations and variants. HMPV is generally less severe and has pandemic potential.” No, both cause respiratory symptoms. COVID-19 can cause more serious complications and spread more easily in young children, older adults and people with compromised immune systems. Produces, which in some cases can cause serious diseases like pneumonia.

precautions to be taken

While masking is not currently required for HMPV alone. Wearing a mask can help protect people from many respiratory viruses, including HMPV, flu, and COVID-19. Masks may be advisable in places where masks are available, especially during flu season or in high-risk settings. Don’t forget that COVID-19 can still have serious consequences, especially for older adults, people with underlying health problems, and those who are not vaccinated. However, widespread vaccination and natural immunity have helped reduce the severity of many cases.

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