HMPV outbreak: #Lockdown trends on social media as users create hilarious memes

India has reported multiple cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) on Monday. This and the outbreak in China has prompted the #Lockdown trend on social media.

Many users drew parallels to the 2019-2020 period when early Covid-19 cases emerged in China, ultimately leading to a global pandemic that disrupted economies worldwide and killed lakhs.



Addressing the HMPV scare in India, Union Health Minister JP Nadda asserted that there was no need to worry and the Central government was well-equipped to handle any potential increase in respiratory viral disease.

Social media users posted hilarious memes as #Lockdown began trending on X.

#Lockdown memes

What are the symptoms of HMPV?

As per Cleveland Clinic, symptoms of human metapneumovirus include:

• Cough.
• Fever.
• Runny or stuffy nose.
• Sore throat.
• Wheezing.
• Shortness of breath (dyspnea).
• Rash.

Most people get HMPV before they turn 5. You can get HMPV again, but symptoms are usually mild after your first infection.


Human metapneumovirus most often causes symptoms similar to a cold, but some people can get very sick. You’re more likely to get severely sick the first time you get HMPV, which is why young kids have a greater risk for serious illness. You get some protection (immunity) from your first infection and then are more likely to have mild, cold-like symptoms if you get another HMPV infection. Adults over 65 and people with breathing problems or a weakened immune system may also get severe symptoms.

How common is human metapneumovirus?

As per Cleveland Clinic report, researchers estimate that about 10% to 12% of respiratory illnesses in children are caused by HMPV. Most cases are mild, but about 5% to 16% of children will develop a lower respiratory tract infection like pneumonia.

How is human metapneumovirus transmitted?

HMPV spreads through direct contact with someone who has it or from touching things contaminated with the virus. For instance:

• Coughing and sneezing.
• Shaking hands, hugging or kissing.
• Touching surfaces or objects like phones, door handles, keyboards or toys.