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HMPV virus: Symptoms, spread, and safety tips for expats

HMPV
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Written byAsaël Häzaqon 16 January 2025
Translated byVeedushi B

Five years on from the Covid-19 pandemic, a "new" respiratory virus is gaining attention on social media. However, experts are familiar with this virus. If you're considering moving abroad or are already traveling, what should you know? What steps should expatriates take to stay safe?

What is the "HMPV virus"?

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV or hMPV) is a seasonal respiratory virus that typically appears in the winter and spring. Despite what some social media posts may claim, it is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001 in the Netherlands and has since been found in various countries, including the United States, where doctors noted a spike in cases during the winter of 2023.

HMPV manifests with symptoms such as coughing, nasal congestion, shortness of breath, fever, sore throat, and fatigue—similar to those of the flu, a cold, or other viral infections. Its seasonal pattern also mirrors that of the flu. In healthy individuals, HMPV tends to be mild and might not even be recognized as a distinct illness, often dismissed as just a common cold. Consequently, many cases of HMPV go undiagnosed.

However, the virus can lead to more severe complications, including symptoms akin to asthma, particularly in children.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), HMPV can sometimes cause serious respiratory illnesses like bronchitis or pneumonia. It poses a higher risk for young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, who require particular caution.

How does HMPV spread?

HMPV typically spreads through the droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also be transmitted by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.

HMPV: What's really happening in China?

On January 2, the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a "general trend of continuous increase" in cases of influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae (a bacteria that can cause pneumonia), and HMPV. This rise in cases aligns with the expected seasonal peak for these illnesses.

The CDC continues to advise the public to follow standard precautions to curb the spread of viruses, such as getting vaccinated and wearing masks. Contrary to claims made on the social network X, which stated that China had declared a state of emergency in response to an HMPV epidemic, no such emergency has been declared. Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO) has not issued any specific alerts regarding HMPV and advises maintaining routine preventive measures.

Which countries are currently affected by HMPV?

HMPV has been reported in multiple countries, including China, India, Malaysia, Kazakhstan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Each country is experiencing its own unique situation with the virus.

In India, authorities have noted that the HMPV cases are not related to those in China. There have been instances of HMPV infections among children, with three young children testing positive.

Malaysia has observed an increase in cases by 45% compared to the previous year, although the Ministry of Health has contested this figure and has not released any official data. The ministry has not made specific announcements regarding HMPV but continues to monitor flu and COVID-19 pathogens. In Kazakhstan, the current HMPV cases are consistent with the expected seasonal pattern for this time of year.

Canada is experiencing a relatively calm situation, with doctors noting that the majority of the population has already been exposed to HMPV. The positivity rate for HMPV in the last week of December 2024 was 1.3%, compared to 9.9% for the flu. Canadian health officials attribute the spread of winter viruses to less outdoor activity and increased indoor gatherings during the holiday season.

Both the United States and the United Kingdom report increases in HMPV cases; however, these increases have not led to significant concern among health officials.

Is it safe to move abroad right now, including to China?

The current discourse around HMPV is primarily influenced by the recent memory of COVID-19, stirring fears of another severe outbreak. However, health authorities, including national governments and the World Health Organization (WHO), continue to provide reassurances. Specifically, China is not implementing any unusual preventive measures at this time.

Experts deem the likelihood of a pandemic from HMPV as "highly unlikely" due to its long history of circulation and existing immunity in portions of the population. Thus, moving to China, or other countries where HMPV is present, remains feasible. The increased pressure on Chinese hospitals is attributed to a peak in various respiratory viruses and the local healthcare practices, where individuals typically seek hospital care rather than visiting community doctors. Despite a noted increase in cases, the overall number of respiratory illnesses is projected to be lower than in 2023.

Currently, there is no vaccine for HMPV. Expatriates are advised to continue practicing preventive measures such as frequent hand washing with soap and water, using disposable tissues for coughs and sneezes, wearing masks in crowded or poorly ventilated areas, and staying home if feeling unwell. These steps are effective in mitigating the risk of HMPV and other respiratory viruses.

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About

I'm the holder of a Master's degree in Law - Political Science as well as a diploma from the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) N2, and have worked as a communications officer. I have over 10 years' experience as a web copywriter.

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