Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus recently making headlines due to an outbreak in China, has been circulating in Pakistan for over two decades, federal health authorities revealed.
First identified in the country in 2001, HMPV has caused multiple outbreaks, primarily affecting children. “Outbreaks of Human Metapneumovirus have been reported in Pakistan since its detection in 2001,” an official from the National Institute of Health (NIH) in Islamabad stated.
A study conducted in 2015 at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) confirmed 21 HMPV cases among children hospitalized with severe lower respiratory tract infections.
No Cause for Alarm
Amid reports of the virus spreading in China, NIH officials advised the public to remain calm, emphasizing the current outbreak of seasonal influenza, including Influenza A and B, as a greater concern in Pakistan.
“Preventive measures like frequent hand-washing and proper coughing etiquette can reduce the risk of viral infections,” the NIH representative suggested. The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) is scheduled to discuss the situation in an upcoming meeting, while Border Health Services remain on high alert to monitor incoming cases.
Preparedness in Pakistan
NIH officials reassured that Pakistan has the necessary tools and expertise to detect and manage HMPV. “We have the capacity to identify all HMPV genotypes,” the NIH expert added.
Children born during COVID-19 lockdowns in other countries might lack immunity to common pathogens, making them more susceptible to severe illness when exposed to new viruses, the expert noted.
Study Findings on HMPV in Islamabad
A 2015 study at PIMS highlighted that 16.5% of 127 throat swabs collected from children under five with severe respiratory infections tested positive for HMPV. Genotype B2 was the most common strain, peaking in November and December, and symptoms included cough, fever, and difficulty breathing.
Seasonal Influenza Dominates Concern
While HMPV remains present, the rise in seasonal influenza is currently more pressing. Influenza A and B have been spreading across the country, particularly affecting vulnerable populations like children, the elderly, and pregnant women.
Health experts underscored the need for expanded surveillance and preparedness to manage HMPV effectively, alongside influenza prevention.
