As reports of a human metapneumovirus (#hMPV) outbreak in China circulate, many are drawing comparisons to the early days of COVID-19.
But here’s the good news according to Dr. Ahmed Kalebi hMPV is not new and is unlikely to cause a global health crisis.
Discovered in 2001, hMPV has since become part of the seasonal flu viruses worldwide, meaning most people already have natural immunity.
“By the age of 5, most people would have been exposed to hMPV,” explains Dr. Ahmed Kalebi, a leading pathologist.
While it can lead to severe respiratory illnesses like pneumonia in infants, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems, hMPV is far from being a novel or highly virulent threat like SARS-CoV-2.
What You Should Know About hMPV in Kenya
In Kenya, hMPV is well-documented as a leading cause of viral respiratory infections and severe pneumonia after respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Studies show it particularly affects infants, with 74% of cases occurring in children under one year.Although there are no vaccines or specific treatments for hMPV, supportive care is highly effective.
Adults rarely face severe symptoms due to immunity developed during childhood. However, the virus peaks seasonally, typically between October-November and March-April, during high temperatures and low humidity.
Testing Options and Precautions
PCR tests remain the gold standard for detecting hMPV and other respiratory viruses.Multiplex PCR panels can simultaneously test for viruses like RSV, influenza, and SARS-CoV-2, offering quick and accurate results.
Dr. Kalebi’s lab, DKL Laboratories, provides a fast turnaround time of under two hours for walk-in patients and referred samples.
No Need for Panic
Increased cases of hMPV in Kenya over the coming months are expected due to seasonal trends, not the reported outbreak in China. While vigilance is important, experts stress that hMPV is manageable and poses little risk to the general population.
