Respiratory viruses are the main cause of illness for hundreds of thousands of people worldwide. In recent years, human metapneumovirus (HMPV) and COVID-19 (caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus) have captured the world’s attention.
Both viruses primarily cause respiratory tract infections and differ in their symptoms, severity, transmission, and target populations.
In this blog, we will tell you the difference between HMPV and COVID-19 and how you can protect yourself.
What Is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?
HMPV is a respiratory virus discovered in 2001, it mainly affects young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems.
It usually begins with mild respiratory symptoms, research has also found that its outbreak is more during the winter season. It is a seasonal virus.
Common symptoms of HMPV:
Cough
Fever
Runny nose
Sore throat
Difficulty breathing (in severe cases)
In most cases it gets cured easily but in severe cases it can cause bronchitis or pneumonia, so consult a doctor immediately if you notice symptoms.
What Is COVID-19?
COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, began spreading slowly in the last months of 2019 and has since become a worldwide pandemic. It affects people of all ages and is associated with significant mortality and long-term complications. It spreads rapidly.
Due to COVID, the whole world had come to a standstill at one point, all kinds of activities had stopped, due to which lockdown was imposed all over the world, then COVID was declared a pandemic.
Common symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever or chills
Dry cough
Fatigue
Loss of taste or smell
Difficulty breathing
Muscle pain and headache
COVID-19 can also cause serious complications such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), organ failure and blood clots.
Key Differences Between HMPV and COVID-19
| Aspect | HMPV | COVID-19 |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Human Metapneumovirus | SARS-CoV-2 virus |
| Age Group Affected | Primarily children, elderly, weakened immune systems | All age groups |
| Transmission | Respiratory droplets, close contact | Lack of hygiene, aerosols |
| Symptoms | Mild cold-like symptoms, sometimes severe | persistent mild fever, loss of taste |
| Incubation Period | 3-6 days | 2-14 days |
| Seasonality | Late winter to early spring | Year-round |
| Severity | Typically mild, severe in high-risk groups | Varies; can be severe with significant mortality |
| Vaccines Available | No | Yes (Pfizer, Moderna, Covaxin etc.) |
Transmission and Spread
Main reasons of spread of HMPV
- Close contact with an infected person
- Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing
- Direct contact with contaminated surfaces
It remains active during the winter season. We can also call it a seasonal virus.
Main reasons of spread of COVID-19
- Contact with an infected person
- Lack of hygiene
- Respiratory droplets and aerosols
- Prolonged stay in crowded areas
COVID-19 spreads rapidly due to which it has been given the status of a global pandemic.
Diagnosis and Treatment
HMPV
- Diagnosis: HMPV is diagnosed in special laboratory tests through PCR.
- Treatment: There is currently no treatment, but fever-reducing medications are taken in consultation with a doctor and oxygen therapy is given in more severe cases.
COVID-19
- Diagnosis: COVID-19 is diagnosed using RT-PCR or rapid antigen tests. In severe cases, blood tests and chest X-rays are done.
- Treatment: A COVID-19 vaccine is now available.
Prevention Strategies
For HMPV
- If you have respiratory symptoms, stay home and consult a doctor.
- Keep high-touch surfaces clean and sanitize frequently.
- Wash hands regularly and pay special attention to hygiene.
- Avoid being around people who are sick.
For COVID-19
- Get the COVID vaccine.
- Wear a mask in crowded places.
- If you have symptoms, consult a doctor and maintain social distancing.
- Keep hands clean and avoid touching your face frequently.
The Role of Awareness in Public Health
To prevent respiratory viruses like HMPV and COVID-19, we and the society need to be aware, because if we know about the early symptoms of these viruses in time, we can take proper precautions and also seek medical help if needed.
World Health Organization (WHO), Governments and healthcare systems also play an important role in running surveillance centers, research and awareness campaigns for the prevention of these viruses.
Conclusion
We have told you throughout our blog that both the viruses are respiratory viruses, yet the effect and treatment of both is quite different, and the only way to avoid both is cleanliness and following the guidelines given by the government, so that we can protect ourselves and our family from these diseases.
The most important thing is that we should not fall prey to any kind of rumors. Vigilance and awareness are the best means to deal with these diseases.
You can also give your opinion below.
To know my views on other issues Visit Here.
