Another Virus to Disrupt our Lives

By Mira Pawar.

HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) outbreak in China is a threat to the entire world just like Covid. After China, there have been reports of increase in HMPV cases in Malaysia also. The Ministry in Malaysia has urged people to be vigilant and adopt preventive measures like frequent handwashing with soap, wearing face masks and covering the mouth and nose when coughing. However, in India for the first time, since the outbreak of the virus in China, there is only one case detected so far, of an eight-month old baby from Bengaluru as reported by Business Standard and Times of India.   

 HMPV is believed to be a respiratory infection cause by a virus in the Pneumoviridae family. Common cold is the symptom noticed which can develop into bronchitis or pneumonia. The emergence of infectious diseases, including viruses like Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) and others, can be attributed to a combination of ecological, social, and biological factors, rather than a single source or intentionality. Here are several key points to consider regarding the emergence of viruses in China:  

China is home to a vast range of ecosystems and a high level of biodiversity, providing numerous opportunities for zoonotic diseases (diseases that jump from animals to humans) to emerge. Also, close interactions between wildlife, livestock and humans facilitate the spill-over of viruses. The wet markets in certain regions often serve as sites for the mixing of various species which can lead to new virus combinations.  

Besides the above factors, the fast pace of urbanization in China has led to high population density, which can accelerate the spread of infectious diseases.  Mainly, China being one of the most connected countries in the world, the movement of people and goods increases the likelihood of diseases spreading beyond local outbreaks.

As for the increase in number of cases reported from China, one of the reasons could be due to their Improvement in disease surveillance and reporting, therefore the impression of a higher detection rate of virus, compared to other regions, making it look like more outbreaks are occurring in China.  

Changes in climate conditions may lead to shifts in the habitats of animals and vectors that carry diseases, potentially leading to new outbreaks. Human encroachment on natural habitats increases the likelihood of virus spillover from wildlife to humans.

Various infectious diseases have emerged in different parts of the world at different times, and while some notable outbreaks have originated in China, that does not imply a common source or intentionality.  

The notion of planned efforts behind virus emergence, lacks credible scientific evidence and often arises from fear and misinformation. It is essential to differentiate between speculation and scientifically backed information.

The global scientific community studies infectious diseases with a focus on understanding their origins and mitigating risks, without attributing them to any deliberate actions.

The emergence of viruses is a complex issue stemming from various environmental, biological, and societal factors. While the global community must remain vigilant in monitoring and responding to outbreaks, attributing these phenomena to a specific country or suggesting intentionality can divert attention from the necessary collaborative efforts needed to improve global health security. Identifying and addressing the root causes of disease emergence is crucial in preventing future outbreaks.