'HMPV does not spread like Covid-19': Expert debunks myths, explains precautions needed to combat virus

If you've taken a flu shot and three doses of a covid-19 vaccine, there's a strong chance that you have built an immunity to combat HMPV, according to Surgical Oncologist Vishal Rao.

In an interview with news agency PTI, Rao explained that unlike Covid-19, HMPV is not a virus that spreads by verbal transmission or through breathing.

Calling it a 'droplet-based' infection, Rao said that precautions are necessary to avoid any chances of catching an infection linked to HMPV.


It should be noted that there are no vaccines available for HMPV as of right now.

"There is no vaccine available for this virus but if you have taken a flu shot, the three vaccine doses of COVID virus, you already have immunity…This is not something that will spread by me talking or breathing like COVID. This is not the case with HMPV virus because it’s a droplet infection... because of cough. You will need to take precautions," rao, who is a surgical oncologist at Bengaluru’s HCG Hospital, was quoted as saying.


So far, three cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) have been detected in India.

Also read: HMPV reaches India: Is there a vaccine to combat the virus spreading across the world?

A two-month-old boy admitted to a private hospital in Ahmedabad has been detected with Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection, while two infants in Bengaluur are recovering from the virus.

India is closely monitoring the rise in HMPV cases in China, with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) tracking respiratory illnesses during the winter season.

The Union Health Ministry reassured the public that Indian authorities are in continuous communication with global health organizations, including the WHO, to stay updated on the situation.

Also read: HMPV Virus Cases Live Updates: Three cases of HMPV in India; Experts downplay panic, emphasize immunity

Experts from the Directorate General of Health Services have advised the public to adopt standard preventive measures to curb the spread of respiratory infections. Dr. Atul Goyal of DGHS emphasized that there is no cause for concern at this time, urging mask-wearing and good hand hygiene.

To prepare for any potential increase in cases, the Indian government recently conducted a nationwide preparedness drill to assess the country’s ability to manage a surge in respiratory illnesses.