As winter in China drives up respiratory illnesses, Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has resurfaced in headlines, raising public concern. However, health experts emphasized that HMPV is neither “new” nor a “mystery”— it’s a 23-year-old virus that warrants attention, but not panic.
Dr. Melvin J. Sanicas, a Negrosanon physician-scientist specializing in global health, immunology, and preventive medicine, told Brigada News FM-Philippines on Saturday, January 4, that HMPV is a virus like influenza.
“It’s an established pathogen that causes respiratory symptoms similar to those of the flu or COVID-19. Scientists have known about it for years,” Sanicas explained.
HMPV typically presents with symptoms such as cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, it can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia. Vulnerable groups, including young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems, are at higher risk, he said.
According to the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HMPV was first identified in 2001 in the Netherlands, is a respiratory RNA virus that has likely circulated among humans for decades. Similar to influenza and SARS-CoV-2, it primarily affects the respiratory system.
The CDC reported that, “The estimated incubation period is 3 to 6 days, and the median duration of illness can vary depending upon severity but is similar to other respiratory infections caused by viruses.”
“Severe cases may involve wheezing or pneumonia, and adults with asthma may experience exacerbations,” Sanicas said.
While no antiviral medications specifically target HMPV, treatment primarily focuses on symptom relief, he added.
No longer unusual
Verified reports from China indicate a rise in respiratory illnesses, including HMPV, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and parainfluenza. However, Sanicas said that this is no longer considered “unusual.”
“Respiratory viruses peak during winter or cold months,” he said. “Although cases have increased in China, infection rates are lower than last year.”
Sanicas added that while HMPV cases have surged, the likelihood of it escalating into a pandemic is very low. “If we apply lessons from COVID-19, we can manage this virus effectively and prevent a global crisis.”
Unlike COVID-19, HMPV has circulated for years, providing some level of natural immunity. Currently, there is no vaccine, but advancements in vaccine technology bring hope.
“Following the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccines can now be developed much faster if needed,” Sanicas said.
When asked to rank respiratory viruses by severity, Sanicas placed respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19 at the top, followed by influenza. While HMPV is concerning, it ranks lower in terms of threat.
“Preventive measures for HMPV are the same as those for COVID-19 or influenza: wash hands frequently, use sanitizers, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and wear masks in crowded areas,” he advised.
Hong Kong’s Centre for Health Protection has issued advice similar to Dr. Sanicas’, urging the public to adopt preventive measures against the seasonal HMPV.
By staying vigilant and applying lessons from previous health crises, we can protect vulnerable populations and prevent unnecessary disruptions, health experts said.
While Sanicas acknowledged the public’s heightened concern following the 2020 pandemic, he emphasized the need for careful use of terms like “outbreak” and “pandemic.” He cautioned that misusing these terms could lead to unwarranted panic and widespread confusion.
False information debunked
Dr. Sanicas’ statements followed reports claiming an HMPV outbreak in China, with some speculating that it could potentially lead to a new global pandemic.
While social media has circulated information claiming that HMPV has become an “international health concern,” the World Health Organization (WHO), an agency with the sole authority on such declaration, has not issued any official statement.
Additionally, neither Chinese health authorities nor the WHO have confirmed any HMPV outbreak or public health emergency in China, including a declaration of a state of emergency.
The Department of Health (DOH) also debunked such claims and reassured the public that the Philippines is closely monitoring global health developments, leveraging its active participation in the WHO’s International Health Regulations (IHR) network for timely and accurate updates.
Meanwhile, Inquirer.net quoted Tom Wu, Director of the Chinese Embassy’s Media Section, who refuted allegations of China declaring a state of emergency due to respiratory illnesses overwhelming hospitals and crematoriums.
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, contributes to Negros Daily Bulletin, and maintains a blog on Medium.