HMPV virus, present in Pakistan since 2001, NIH confirms amid China outbreak

The National Institute of Health said HMPV has been reported in Pakistan since 2001, with 21 cases at PIMS in 2015.

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The National Institute of Health (NIH) in Pakistan has confirmed that the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), which is rapidly spreading in China, has been present in Pakistan for over two decades as The virus, similar to the one seen in China, was first recorded in Pakistan in 2001.

In a statement issued from its headquarters in Islamabad, the NIH mentioned that HMPV cases have been reported in Pakistan since 2001, with 21 cases specifically noted at Islamabad's PIMS hospital in 2015.

The Pakistani government is closely monitoring the situation in China, where the virus is spreading quickly as a meeting of the National Command and Operations Centre (NCOC) has been called on Tuesday to assess the situation and take necessary steps.

The NIH clarified that the World Health Organization (WHO) has not issued any advisory regarding the HMPV virus yet.

Medical experts believe that HMPV cases are not uncommon, and currently, seasonal influenza, especially types A and B, is also circulating in Pakistan, with several reported cases.

HMPV has been present globally for over 60 years, but it was first diagnosed in 2000. According to experts, the virus spreads slowly.

Cases of HMPV have surged in China since December 2024, and the U.S. also reported cases starting in April 2024.

Experts have advised that individuals exhibiting symptoms such as severe coughing, chest pain, runny nose, fever, and difficulty breathing should consult a doctor immediately, especially elderly individuals and children, who should be taken to the hospital.

Although the virus has been confirmed to be spreading in China, no widespread outbreaks have been reported in other countries.

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus with flu-like symptoms, is a significant cause of concern. The illness can cause complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.

While no vaccine has been developed for HMPV, it remains a contagious virus that spreads through respiratory droplets, coughing, and sneezing.

This rise in respiratory infections has raised alarms in neighbouring countries, including India, Indonesia, and Japan, where authorities have advised citizens to take necessary precautions.

As the winter season continues, Chinese authorities are maintaining that the situation is under control, urging citizens and visitors to remain vigilant but not panic.