The spread of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in neighboring China and India has raised concerns in Nepal about a potential outbreak. Recent reports from northern China highlight a surge in hospital admissions, intensified government monitoring, and public anxiety due to this contagious respiratory infection. The situation has drawn global attention, with memories of the COVID-19 pandemic and its devastating effects on health and the economy still fresh.
HMPV, first identified in the Netherlands in 2001, has recently gained prominence as cases spread across regions. In India, the government confirmed infections in three individuals, heightening fears in Nepal, which shares an open border with India.
Officials from Nepal’s Ministry of Health and Population acknowledge the risk of HMPV entering Nepal due to its proximity to China and India. However, they admit that no specific measures have been implemented to prevent or control the virus’s spread.
“There is a possibility that the infection could spread quickly in Nepal, especially among traders operating through the northern border,” said health ministry’s spokesperson Dr Prakash Budhathoki. He added that the open border with India increases the likelihood of transmission from the southern neighbour as well.
Dr Budhathoki emphasized that while the virus is not new, there is no cause for alarm. “Since this virus is old, it doesn’t require excessive panic. The government is taking precautions but has not made any special preparations,” he said.
Dr Sher Bahadur Pun of Shukraraj Tropical and Infectious Diseases Hospital explained that HMPV primarily affects children under two years of age and elderly individuals over 65.
“A 2014 study in Nepal found that about 5% of infants visiting hospitals for colds and coughs were infected with HMPV. Currently, there is no separate testing protocol for this virus,” he stated.
Dr Pun warned that if the virus mutates, it could pose significant health risks. “If the infection spreads due to genetic changes, Nepal must be vigilant to avoid a major health crisis,” he added.
Economists are also concerned about the potential economic impact if the virus spreads widely. The Indian stock market reacted sharply to news of the virus, with the Bombay Stock Exchange Sensex falling by 1,258 points and the National Stock Exchange Nifty dropping by 388 points on Monday.
Nepal’s economy, already weakened by the COVID-19 pandemic, remains vulnerable. Economist Keshav Acharya pointed out that another pandemic could severely impact sectors such as healthcare and industries, leading to increased unemployment and reduced investment. “Crowded hospitals would drain state resources, industries could shut down, and GDP would suffer,” Acharya explained.
What Is HMPV?
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a contagious virus that affects the respiratory system. According to Dr Pun, it can infect people of all ages, with children under two, the elderly, and those with weak immune systems or chronic conditions being particularly vulnerable.
Symptoms of HMPV include fever, cough, sore throat, wheezing, and difficulty in breathing. Preventative measures include washing hands with soap and water after touching surfaces or returning from outside, wearing a mask and maintaining social distancing.
