The Corona Virus is a very well known virus that changed many people’s lives in March of 2020. The deadly virus came from China originally, and now there might be a new one.

There have been many reports of a cough, runny nose or nasal congestion, sore throat and a fever. It was thought to be yet another flu outbreak, but the symptoms seem to be much worse than your regular flu. More concerning symptoms started to appear as well. These include, wheezing, difficulty breathing, hoarseness, pneumonia, a rash, and in adults, aggravation of asthma has been reported. Although these symptoms seem extreme, this virus is not new or a mystery.

Dr. Sivaranjani Santosh from Hyderabad explained in an interview on The Economic Times with South First that HMPV is neither a “mysterious virus” nor new.

The virus can last up to 10 days, but in more severe cases, particularly children, the elderly and others with poor
immune systems it can last up to two weeks. It is important to know that while the virus itself may last for this period of time, most symptoms will continue to linger for at least a few more weeks. So overall depending on
health issues and age, the virus will last differently for everyone.

Reported by Deccan Chronicle, Dr Burri explained on The Economic Times that most cases of HMPV are “mild”, the virus can cause “severe respiratory illness” in certain groups, including young children, older adults, and those with poor immune systems.

To sum it up, the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is nothing to worry about for most individuals. It causes mild respiratory symptoms, which are manageable for most. If you are a young child, an elderly, or have a weakened immune system, these symptoms may be more severe, but the virus is still treatable with over-the-counter medications. So while it’s good to be aware of HMPV, it is just another virus that the body can handle on its own.