Public concern has grown with viral images of crowded hospitals in China following a surge in cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). With some instances of HMPV now appearing in the UK, many are asking whether this could escalate into another COVID-style pandemic.
What is HMPV and How Does it Spread?
HMPV is not a new virus; it was first identified in the Netherlands in 2001 and is a common winter illness seen worldwide. Closely related to the Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) family, HMPV presents symptoms similar to the common cold or flu, spreading through direct contact or by touching contaminated surfaces.
For most people, HMPV results in mild symptoms such as a cough, blocked nose, and fever. However, vulnerable groups, including children under two, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems, face heightened risks. In such cases, HMPV can exacerbate pre-existing conditions like asthma or COPD or, in severe instances, lead to bronchitis or pneumonia.
Current Cases of HMPV
Winter typically brings a shift in human activity and health. For countries in the northern hemisphere, colder temperatures and reduced sunlight weaken immune systems, partly due to lower vitamin D levels. A recent study also suggests that colder weather diminishes the release of extracellular vesicles in the nose, which usually help fight off viruses.
Increased time spent indoors during winter further facilitates virus transmission. This seasonality is evident in HMPV’s current spike, which aligns with colder weather trends. The situation in China, where winter is in full swing, is consistent with this seasonal pattern. Although viral videos show crowded hospitals, Chinese authorities confirm their healthcare system is not overwhelmed, and no emergency declarations have been made.
Also in the UK, cases of HMPV have also risen steadily since October, yet the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reports that this increase is in line with typical seasonal trends.
Are Fears of a New Pandemic Justified?
With memories of COVID-19 still fresh, any surge in respiratory illness understandably raises public concern. However, experts believe fears of a global pandemic caused by HMPV are overblown. Here’s why:
- Established Global Presence
HMPV has circulated globally for decades, meaning most people have already been exposed to it at some point, building a degree of population-wide immunity. - Transmission and Severity
The transmission rate and severity of HMPV are more akin to the common cold or flu than to COVID-19, making a pandemic-scale outbreak unlikely. - Preventative Measures
The public is already accustomed to measures that curb the spread of respiratory viruses, such as handwashing, disinfection, mask-wearing, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
Preventing the Spread of HMPV
While HMPV is not expected to trigger another pandemic, taking precautions to limit its spread remains essential for public health. Key prevention strategies include:
- Washing hands regularly with soap and water or using hand sanitiser.
- Staying home if you feel unwell to reduce transmission.
- Ensuring proper cleaning and disinfection of surfaces, particularly high-touch areas like door handles and worktops.
How BioHygiene Can Help
Effective disinfection is a cornerstone of preventing the spread of viruses like HMPV. BioHygiene’s sustainable cleaning solutions, including All Purpose Sanitiser, Foam Hand Sanitiser, and Kitchen Sanitiser, are designed to deliver exceptional performance. These products are effective against all enveloped viruses, including HMPV, providing a powerful and eco-friendly way to protect your environment.
