SAMA dispels misconceptions about HMPV

The rise in new cases, particularly in China, has sparked concern around the world with reports of overcrowded hospitals.

“HMPV is a respiratory virus that attacks primarily the upper respiratory tract, such as the nose and throat, and the lower respiratory tract, i.e. the bronchi and lungs. It is very closely related to respiratory syncytial virus, commonly known as LSV.

“This HMPV virus was first identified in 2001 but is now recognized as a common cause of respiratory disease worldwide, so it is important to understand that it is not a new virus. There is a common misconception in society that this virus is a new virus, it is an old virus.” – said Coetzee.

Coetzee added that HMPV can affect anyone, regardless of age; however, certain populations are at greater risk of severe disease.

“People who would be more susceptible to disease or at greater risk would be your children, five-year-olds, adults and immunocompromised patients, especially those with cancer or chronic diseases. This is also important to understand that because of the very low mortality rate, if you compare it to the RSV virus that I just mentioned, the flu or COVID, that anyone can get it.

“It’s also important to understand that immunity is only partial, meaning you can get it more than once and it can occur throughout your life.”

She added that the symptoms of HMPV resemble those of many other respiratory viruses and include fever, cough, runny nose and sore throat.

“In the beginning, if you have symptoms very similar to all viral infections, you know, sore throat, slight cough, fever, so it’s similar to all viruses, but that’s more or less how it ends.

“There is no vaccine for it, it is a viral infection, so there are no things like antibiotics, so going to get antibiotics from a doctor won’t help you, it’s a viral infection, which is what we usually do with it, types of viral infections, we treat the symptoms.

“If you have a fever, we will ask the patient to give them ibuprofen or something like paracetamol. You will treat a runny nose and upper respiratory tract with alcohol and flu medications. The most important and most important part is rest, stay home, get well and rest, and then make sure if you are really sick, wear a mask.” – said Coetzee.

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