Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Has Been in Pakistan Since 2001: NIH

Health authorities confirm HMPV has circulated in Pakistan for two decades, causing multiple outbreaks, especially among children.

Following global concern over Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) after an outbreak in China, federal health officials in Pakistan clarified on Saturday that the virus is not new here. It has been present since 2001 and has triggered several outbreaks.

History of HMPV in Pakistan

The National Institute of Health (NIH) Islamabad confirmed that HMPV was first identified in Pakistan in 2001.

Since then, the virus has been responsible for numerous outbreaks, predominantly affecting children.

A 2015 study at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) reported 21 cases of HMPV in children hospitalized with severe lower respiratory tract infections.

No Need to Worry About China’s Outbreak

Despite reports of HMPV’s spread in China, the NIH reassured the public that there is no immediate cause for concern in Pakistan.

The country is currently facing a seasonal influenza outbreak, including Influenza A and B.

The NIH urged people to practice preventive measures, such as regular hand-washing and proper coughing etiquette, to reduce the risk of viral infections.

A meeting at the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) is scheduled for Tuesday to discuss the situation.

Border Health Services (BHS) has been put on high alert at all entry points to monitor potential cases.

Detection and Preparedness in Pakistan

Given HMPV’s long-standing presence in Pakistan, the country is well-equipped to detect all genotypes of the virus.

The NIH official emphasized that no new cases have been reported to health facilities so far.

Experts also pointed out that children born during the strict COVID-19 lockdowns might be more vulnerable to severe illness, as they were less exposed to common pathogens during their early years.

Study Insights on HMPV

A 2015 study at PIMS focused on the prevalence and genetic diversity of HMPV in children under five with severe acute respiratory infections (SARI).

The study found that 16.5% of throat swabs from 127 children tested positive for HMPV. The most common strain was Genotype B2, followed by A2b, A2a, and B1.

The study noted that HMPV cases typically peaked in winter, with symptoms including cough, wheezing, fever, and difficulty breathing. Severe cases required hospitalization due to lung infiltrations.

The study also found that the Pakistani strains of HMPV were genetically similar to strains from India, China, and Singapore.

Focus on Seasonal Influenza

The NIH recommended that the public adopt preventive measures and seek timely medical care for influenza symptoms.

Recommendations for Monitoring and Preparedness

Health experts stressed the importance of a strong surveillance system to track HMPV and other respiratory viruses.

The NIH official concluded that while Pakistan has the resources to manage HMPV, heightened vigilance and preparedness remain essential.