Human Metapneumovirus present in Pakistan for two decades, says NIH

Reports have recently emerged of the spread of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China. This virus, primarily affecting children aged 14 and below, has raised concerns, but it remains unclear how severe the risks are for those infected.

The National Institute of Health (NIH) in Pakistan has issued a statement confirming that HMPV has been present in the country for over 20 years. According to the statement, the virus was first diagnosed in Pakistan in 2001.

According to a report by Geo News on Saturday, in 2015, 21 cases of HMPV were reported at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad.

While the World Health Organization (WHO) has not yet issued any advisory regarding HMPV, NIH officials stated that a meeting of the National Command and Operation Center (NCOC) will be held on January 7 to discuss the situation.

Currently, seasonal influenza, particularly Influenza A and B, are prevalent in Pakistan. Health experts added that HMPV cases have been periodically reported.

Global media reports indicate that HMPV first emerged in 2000, with no significant changes in the severity of the disease. In the United States, around 20,000 children under five are affected by the virus annually, with health authorities recommending COVID-19-like measures for prevention.