Another case of HMPV was revealed in Mumbai on Wednesday. At least eight cases of HMPV have been reported so far in India. Amid rising cases of respiratory diseases, the central government has advised states to increase surveillance. Jharkhand Health Minister Dr Irfan Ansari on Wednesday directed the health department to remain vigilant to prevent the spread of HMPV across the state. He also asked the authorities to deploy medical teams for strict monitoring at railway stations and airports in the state.
Dr. Ansari said in a press release that the virus is slightly dangerous for people aged 5 to 70. Its symptoms are similar to those of Covid-19. He ordered health officials to deploy medical teams to railway stations, airports and other important locations to monitor and investigate possible cases. On Monday, two cases were reported from Bengaluru, Karnataka. In Gujarat, the third case tested positive after being admitted to hospital. The development came at a time when China and other countries are grappling with a major outbreak of viral fever and pneumonia.
What is human metapneumovirus?
HMPV is a common respiratory disease. In this, a virus enters the respiratory tract, causing infection of the lower and upper respiratory tract. This is not a new finding and cases have been reported in different countries in recent years. There is no specific antiviral treatment for HMPV and prevention is the cornerstone of controlling its spread.
HMPV Virus Symptoms and Prevention
Common symptoms of HMPV infection include cough, cold, fever, etc. In some cases, the infection can also cause shortness of breath and nasal congestion.
HMPV virus prevention
To prevent HMPV infection, people need to take care of some special things. Like people need to wash their hands regularly, maintain social distancing, and wear masks. If you see symptoms related to HMPV. You are therefore also advised to remain isolated.
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Dr Khilnani said this virus is rapidly affecting children under two years and the elderly. The lifespan of this virus is three to six days. Its only symptoms are fever, cold and cough. It quickly affects people with weak immunity. These people may also need to be admitted to intensive care.
According to Dr. Khilnani, there is no vaccine against human metapneumovirus. At the same time, we also don’t have any antiviral drugs. Its treatment depends on the symptoms. This is the reason why, in all cases revealed so far, the patient is treated according to the symptoms.
Disclaimer: Some information in news stories is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, you should consult the relevant expert.
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