You’ve probably seen HMPV (human metapneumovirus) in the news recently, and you might be drawing parallels to the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there are some key differences, and let me reassure you right away: we do NOT need to start stockpiling toilet paper.

What is HMPV?
HMPV is not the ‘new COVID.’ It’s a well-known respiratory virus that causes cold and flu-like symptoms. Healthy adults usually experience mild symptoms, but, like other respiratory viruses, HMPV can cause more severe illness when it affects the lower airways. Those at higher risk include infants and young children, the elderly, and individuals with underlying conditions such as asthma, emphysema (COPD), or weakened immune systems.

HMPV is a seasonal virus from the same family as RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). Rather than diving into a lengthy discussion on viral taxonomy, let’s focus on the key differences between HMPV and COVID-19 that should put your mind at ease.

Key Differences from COVID-19
When COVID-19 first emerged, it appeared as a cluster of unexplained pneumonia cases, and it took nearly a month to identify the cause as a new coronavirus strain. What we’re seeing with HMPV is completely different.

Current reports highlight an increase in HMPV cases, but these are occurring during the typical cold and flu season, as expected. HMPV is not spreading globally at an alarming rate; rather, it follows seasonal patterns, much like other respiratory viruses.

In fact, last year, HMPV accounted for roughly 2%  of respiratory infections recorded in a Newcastle-based study called PREVENT (Pandemic Respiratory Virus Epidemiological Virus Trial). This study, conducted by HMRI’s Infection Research Program, involved 52 participants providing weekly swabs to track respiratory virus circulation in the Hunter Region.

Unlike COVID-19, which was a novel virus that started circulating while we were all immune-naïve, HMPV has been around for decades. First identified in 2001, studies show evidence of neutralizing antibodies in archived blood samples dating back to the 1950s. In fact, research from the Netherlands in 2001 indicated that most people are exposed to HMPV by the age of five.

The Bottom Line
There’s already some level of protection against HMPV in the community, and there’s no need to worry about it ‘spreading’ to us; it’s been here all along.

HMPV is just another seasonal cold/flu virus, so no need to panic we’re not heading for another round of ‘Gladys’ Daily COVID Case Chronicles!

Dr Jason Girkin
Viral Immunology and Respiratory Disease Researcher
HMRI Infection Research Program

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