These Two Diagnostic Tests Reveal If You Have Caught HMPV Infection

The Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has grabbed headlines following a surge in cases in China, with confirmed cases reported in India as well. Indian authorities are keeping a close watch, advising the public to stay calm. Experts emphasise that HMPV isn’t a new virus and primarily affects people with compromised immunity, showing symptoms similar to the flu. If you are experiencing signs that resemble HMPV, knowing how to get diagnosed is crucial. Here’s what doctors suggest.

Symptoms like a cold, cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath should not be ignored. While these signs overlap with many respiratory conditions, timely testing can help you make informed decisions.

HMPV is a respiratory virus that requires specific laboratory testing for confirmation. Dr Geetanjali Gupta, Director of Technical Operations and Quality Assurance at Redcliffe Labs shares two most reliable diagnostic methods:

This is the gold standard for detecting HMPV. RT-PCR works by amplifying RNA sequences from respiratory samples, offering highly accurate and sensitive results. Dr. Geetanjali Gupta, Director of Technical Operations and Quality Assurance at Redcliffe Labs, emphasizes that RT-PCR is one of the most dependable ways to diagnose HMPV, enabling timely recovery measures.

Antigen tests detect viral proteins in the sample, giving a quicker diagnostic option. However, this method is less effective in identifying early or mild infections compared to PCR, making it a secondary choice.

In rare cases, healthcare providers may opt for viral culture testing, where the respiratory sample is grown in a lab to identify HMPV. While accurate, this method is time-consuming and less commonly used.

Dr. Shelly (Mittal) Mahajan, Lab Director & Clinical Lead at Mahajan Imaging Labs, advises that in addition to these tests, comprehensive blood panels can help identify complications. Imaging, like chest X-rays or CT scans, may also be recommended to assess respiratory involvement.

Early intervention and preventive care remain the best ways to combat HMPV. Stick to credible sources for updates and follow public health guidelines. By staying proactive and vigilant, we can reduce the virus’s impact and protect ourselves and those around us.

Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Health and around the world.