KATHMANDU – In a bid to determine the spread of human metapneumovirus in Nepal, the Division of Epidemiology and Disease Control decided to test samples collected from patients suffering from respiratory diseases.
Authorities say testing is the only way to confirm whether the infectious virus has already entered Nepali communities this winter.
“Although human metapneumovirus infection is not new in our country and has been detected several times in the past, we decided to carry out tests on samples from patients suffering from flu-like symptoms and whose the test came back negative for the influenza virus,” Dr Yadu said. Chandra Ghimire, division director.
Human metapneumovirus is a respiratory illness that usually causes flu-like symptoms. Doctors have said, however, that very young children, older people with weakened immune systems or those with underlying illnesses are at higher risk of developing serious illness. They say the virus usually causes upper respiratory infections, but can sometimes trigger lower respiratory infections, including pneumonia, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), among others.
Neighbors to the south and north – China and India – have reported cases of human metapneumovirus in recent weeks. India has confirmed at least seven cases in cities like Bengaluru, Nagpur, Chennai and Ahmedabad. Indian health authorities have ordered states to strengthen surveillance for influenza-like illnesses and severe acute respiratory illnesses following confirmation of the virus.
Similarly, China has reported an increase in human metapneumovirus cases since mid-December.
Dr. Ghimire said human metapneumovirus infection during winter is common and is similar to several other common viral illnesses that often affect many people, including children and the elderly.
“We should not panic about human metapneumovirus infections because this virus has been circulating in our communities for years,” Ghimire said. “We generally don’t do testing unless there is an increase in new cases. We decided to carry out testing because the increase in infections among our neighbors is making headlines.”
Doctors say human metapneumovirus is a common virus that has been circulating around the world for several decades. Scientists first identified this virus in 2001. The virus spreads through direct contact with infected people or through contaminated surfaces.
It is estimated that almost everyone is infected with this virus at some point in their life, but symptoms are mild after the first infection. It is estimated that 10 to 12 percent of all respiratory illnesses in children are caused by the human metapneumovirus.
Symptoms of infection include cough, fever, sore throat, runny nose, shortness of breath, rash, and wheezing. Most patients can manage their illness at home and there are no antiviral medications for the illness.
Nepali doctors say viral respiratory illnesses flare up during the winter months.
“Many respiratory viruses become active during winter,” said Dr Sher Bahadur Pun, head of the clinical research unit at Sukraraj Tropical and Infectious Diseases Hospital. “Human metapneumovirus has been circulating in our communities for years, but it is only detected if testing is done.”
Pun, meanwhile, stressed the need for active surveillance mechanisms and regular testing to monitor any potential mutations of the virus.
Public health measures — wearing masks, washing hands, avoiding crowds and maintaining social distancing — can reduce infection, doctors say.
