Cases of human metapneumovirus have been reported in India, but authorities have stated that there is no need to panic over the current situation. Read on to understand how dangerous this virus and how it spreads can be.
Cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) have been diagnosed in India, mainly in children and babies. Different health authorities have stated that “there is no reason to panic” and several states have already issued warnings, alerting all hospitals to be prepared to face any situation in the treatment of this respiratory disease. However, protocols must be followed to reduce the risk of contracting it or spreading it further.
India reported its first cases of HMPV on Monday after five children tested positive in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. Union Health Minister JP Nadda said the government was closely monitoring the situation and there was no reason to worry.
How dangerous is HMPV?
HMPV is a respiratory illness that causes symptoms similar to those of the flu or cold, but can increase the risk or lead to more serious complications, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, especially among the elderly, young children, and immunocompromised people. To date, no fatality or critical condition of any patient who has been detected positive has been reported. This is considered like any other seasonal respiratory illness.
Symptoms of HMPV
- Fever
- Cough
- Difficulty breathing
- Nasal congestion
- Fatigue
Bronchitis and pneumonia are lung problems that cause cough, fever, breathing problems, etc.
How is HMPV spread?
The human metapneumovirus has few symptoms similar to those of Covid-19, the common flu, and also spreads quickly. This respiratory disease affects the lower and upper respiratory areas. Infants, children, the elderly, and the immunocompromised population are at higher risk of contracting this virus.
Like the flu or Covid-19, this is also transmitted through droplets, aerosols or by coming into contact with an infected person or touching an infected object. These are respiratory viruses that can cause infections in people of all ages, especially during the winter and early spring months. Infection with the virus is usually a mild, self-limiting condition and most cases recover on their own.
Preventive tips against HMPV
- Maintain proper personal hygiene such as washing hands, having disinfectants at hand.
- Wear a mask when you leave home, especially in crowded areas.
- Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough and be sure to wash your hands afterward.
- Infected people must isolate themselves to prevent spread. Others should maintain social distancing as much as possible.
- Eat a healthy diet that strengthens immunity.
On Tuesday, two suspected cases of the virus were reported in Nagpur, Maharashtra. Both patients were discharged after treatment, a senior official said. Their samples were sent to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Nagpur and the National Institute of Virology in Pune, the official said. According to Shashikant Shambharkar, Deputy Director of Health, “Two suspected HMPV patients have been found in Nagpur. One of these patients is 7 years old and the other is 13 years old,” ANI quoted.
Shambharkar further added, “The reports of both patients came positive at a private hospital. Both patients have been treated and discharged. The reports of these two suspected patients are sent to AIIMS Nagpur for examination.”
