HMPV Virus: More Than 5 Cases Reported in India, Know Do’s and Don’ts With Precautionary Measures

HMPV Virus: The rapid increase in Human Metapneumovirus cases in China has sparked concerns regarding the transmission and potential pandemic situation like COVID-19 globally. Not only India, but health officials from different countries are monitoring the spread of this virus, along with issuing advisories to people for practicing safety measures. After China, India has also reported a total of seven cases in three states, including Karnataka, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu. The rapid spread of HMPV has created panic among citizens, however, medical experts claim this virus to be of “no serious harm.”

Talking about the treatment, no vaccine till now has been developed to combat HMPV, so it is necessary to keep yourself aware of precautions and things you should avoid to not get infected.

HMPV Virus in India  

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has confirmed two cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Bengaluru, both discovered at Bangalore Baptist Hospital. One case included a three-month-old girl who was treated in December due to fever and cold symptoms. She tested positive for HMPV, recovered completely, and was discharged. The second case included an eight-month-old boy who was admitted with a fever and a minor injury. He tested positive for both HMPV and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). He is currently in recovery.

In addition, Nagpur reported two cases involving children aged seven and thirteen. Initially treated for suspected H1N1 (swine flu), polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests revealed HMPV. Both children were treated as outpatients and have fully recovered, according to the Meditrina Institute of Medical Sciences. 

On December 26, in Ahmedabad, a two-month-old newborn from Dungarpur, Rajasthan, tested positive with HMPV. The infant was treated and has subsequently been discharged. In Tamil Nadu, Health Secretary Supriya Sahu confirmed two ongoing HMPV cases in Chennai and Salem and assured that both children were in stable condition.

Precautionary Measures For HMPV

The human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild cold symptoms. According to studies, scientists first identified it in 2001. Common symptoms include coughing, fever, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and, in rare cases, wheezing or shortness of breath. Some people, especially children, the elderly, and those with weak immune systems, may develop more serious respiratory illnesses including pneumonia or bronchiolitis.

India is constantly monitoring the issue and has requested timely updates on the outbreak from the World Health Organization (WHO). The Ministry of Health has announced that, as a preventive step, there will be an increase in the number of laboratories testing for HMPV cases, and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) will monitor HMPV trends for one year.

Do’s and Don’ts For HMPV Virus  

Do’s  

• If you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a napkin or tissue.  

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based sanitizer.  

• Avoid crowded areas. Avoid public locations if you have a fever, cough, or sneeze.  

• To reduce transmission hazards, ensure that all settings have appropriate ventilation with outdoor air.  

• If you are sick, stay at home and restrict your interaction with people.  

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and eating nutritious foods. 

Don’ts  

• Do not reuse tissue paper or handkerchiefs.  

• Avoid intimate contact with sick people, and do not share personal belongings like towels or bedding.  

• Avoid repeatedly touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.  

• Do not spit in public places.  

• Avoid self-medication without consulting a medical expert.