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Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV): All You Need to Know
The world experienced a crisis of a lifetime in 2020, with the COVID-19 pandemic claiming over 70 lakh lives globally. As life slowly returned to normal again, the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China in late 2024 has raised concerns about another global health emergency. In fact, the virus has now reached India, with 11 cases reported as of January 9, 2025. With many people comparing it with coronavirus, know everything about HMPV and its difference from COVID-19.
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- Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)
What is HMPV?
HMPV, or Human Metapneumovirus, is a respiratory virus belonging to the pneumoviridae family. It primarily causes flu and cold-like symptoms but can escalate to severe respiratory illnesses, such as pneumonia and bronchitis. The virus is transmitted through coming in direct contact with secretions from sneezing and coughing of an infected person and is more common among senior citizens, young children, and people with weak immunity. However, the HMPV infection is considered mild and self-limiting.
Though HMPV might not be widely recognised, it is not a new virus. It was first identified in the Netherlands in 2001 but has been circulating globally for decades before. Moreover, the HMPV witnesses the highest incidence during colder months, i.e. from November to May.
What are HMPV Symptoms?
The HMPV virus usually takes about 3 to 6 days to show symptoms after entering the body. Some of the most common HMPV symptoms include:
- Cough
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea
- Nasal congestion
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Fatigue
- Rash
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
Severe cases of HMPV can lead to serious complications, such as bronchitis, bronchiolitis, pneumonia, asthma flare-ups, etc. These symptoms usually improve within 2 to 5 days. In case your symptoms persist for more than two weeks, make sure to consult a doctor.
Does Health Insurance Cover HMPV in India?
Yes.
All health insurance companies in India cover the cost of treating HMPV. They generally provide coverage for in-patient hospitalisation expenses, such as room rent, nursing charges, ICU expenses, doctor's fees, etc., along with pre and post-hospitalisation costs, ambulance charges and day care procedures. Additionally, some plans may cover OPD expenses, cost of consumables, and home care treatment expenses resulting from the HMPV infection.
However, health insurance coverage for HMPV will be available after an initial waiting period of 30 days. Besides, the extent of coverage may vary across different plans. Therefore, you must read the policy wording carefully to understand the exact coverage available.
Who Should Buy Health Insurance for HMPV?
Buying health insurance for HMPV is essential for everyone, as the virus can affect people of all ages. However, the following groups are more vulnerable to its effects:
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Newborns and Infants
Due to developing immune systems, newborns and children under the age of 5 years are highly susceptible to respiratory infections like HMPV. So, parents must consider purchasing a family floater health insurance policy that covers HMPV treatment expenses of newborns and infants.
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Senior Citizens
Senior citizens aged 65 years and above often have weaker immunity, making them more vulnerable to viral infections like HMPV. Moreover, the virus can lead to severe health complications, such as pneumonia. Thus, investing in health insurance for senior citizens is highly recommended.
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People with Pre-existing Respiratory Conditions
People with chronic respiratory issues, such as asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), are at greater risk of contracting HMPV. This is why buying specific mediclaim plans like health insurance for asthma is a wise decision for such people.
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People with Weakened Immune Systems
People with weak immunity due to an existing illness or disease have a higher chance of catching HMPV. Therefore, they must secure their health by purchasing a comprehensive health insurance policy.
HMPV Vs COVID-19: What is the Difference?
Ever since the HMPV outbreak in China last year, many people have confused the HMPV virus with coronavirus as they both cause respiratory infections and have similar symptoms. However, both these viruses are different from each other in terms of clinical severity, causes and incubation period.
The table below highlights the key differences between HMPV and COVID-19:
| Categories | HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) | COVID-19 |
| Virus Family | Pneumoviridae | Coronaviridae |
| Primary Symptoms | Fever, wheezing, nasal congestion, cough, sore throat, and breathing difficulty | Fever, loss of taste/smell, cough, fatigue, and breathlessness |
| Severity | Typically mild | Mild to severe |
| Incubation Period | 2 to 5 days | 2 to 14 days |
| Global Impact | Seasonal outbreaks, especially in colder months | Global pandemic starting in late 2019 |
| Age Group Affected | Infants, young children, elderly, and immunocompromised people | All age groups; with elderly and those with comorbidities at a higher risk |
| Vaccines | No licensed vaccines are available yet | Multiple vaccines are available |
HMPV Precautions: Do's & Don'ts to Follow
Take a look at some precautionary tips to reduce the risk of an HMPV infection:
Do's:
- Wear a mask if you are feeling unwell or in a crowded place
- Cover your nose and mouth with your elbow while sneezing or coughing
- Wash your hands regularly with water and soap, especially before touching your face
- Use hand sanitisers or alcohol-based wipes if soap is not available
- Isolate yourself if you face HMPV symptoms
- Drink lots of water and eat healthy food
- Follow social distancing in public places
Don'ts:
- Do not shake hands frequently
- Do not touch shared surfaces like doorknobs or handrails
- Do not touch your face, particularly your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Do not come in close contact with sick people
- Do not reuse tissue papers or handkerchiefs.
FAQs
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Q1. Is HMPV just a common cold?
Ans: No, the HMPV virus is not just a common cold. Although it can cause symptoms similar to a cold, such as coughing, congestion, and fever, HMPV can lead to more severe respiratory issues, like pneumonia and asthma flare-ups, especially in young children, senior citizens, and people with compromised immunity. -
Q2. How long does HMPV last?
Ans: Most HMPV infections last about 2 to 5 days and get cured on their own. However, if symptoms persist beyond two weeks, it is important to consult a doctor. -
Q3. Is HMPV a new virus?
Ans: No, HMPV is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001 in the Netherlands but has been circulating worldwide since the 1970s. -
Q4. Is HMPV covered by health insurance?
Ans: Yes, all mediclaim insurance policies in India cover the treatment cost of HMPV. The coverage includes hospitalisation costs, ambulance charges, OPD costs, and pre and post-hospitalisation expenses among others. -
Q5. Can I get HMPV coverage from day 1 if I buy a health insurance policy?
Ans: No, all health insurance policies have an initial waiting period of 30 days for HMPV coverage. -
Q6. How many cases of HMPV are there in India?
Ans: As of January 9, 2025, 11 HMPV cases have been recorded in India, mainly in Bengaluru, Gujarat, Chennai, Kolkata and Maharashtra. -
Q7. Is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) contagious?
Ans: Yes, HMPV is contagious, and you can catch it by coming in close contact with an infected person. -
Q8. Can HMPV mutate?
Ans: Yes, HMPV can mutate and evolve over time with the emergence of new strains. However, it is not considered a virus with a pandemic potential.
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