Three cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) have been reported in India, with two in Bengaluru and one in Ahmedabad. The affected individuals are babies, and one has already been discharged from the hospital. The Indian government and the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) have assured the public that there is no need to panic, as Human Metapneumovirus is already circulating globally, including in India.
Following reports of an HMPV outbreak in China, the hashtag #Lockdown began trending on social media. People drew comparisons between the recent Human Metapneumovirus surge and the COVID-19 outbreak that originated in China in 2019-2020, which led to a global pandemic. COVID-19 cases were first reported in Wuhan, China, in November 2019, and quickly spread worldwide, with India confirming its first case in Kerala in January 2020.
Human Metapneumovirus is a viral infection that affects people of all ages, causing respiratory issues. It was first identified in 2001 and can range from mild respiratory discomfort to severe complications, particularly in infants, elderly people, and those with weakened immune systems.
JP Nadda Assures Public on HMPV
On Monday, Union Health Minister JP Nadda addressed concerns about Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), reassuring citizens that it is not a new virus. He explained that Human Metapneumovirus, which was first identified in 2001, has been present worldwide for many years.
In response to growing fears and discussions on social media, Nadda shared a video message to reassure the public. He emphasized that the government is closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary actions to protect public health.
Nadda clarified that HMPV is not a new virus and has been circulating globally for years. It spreads through the air via respiration and can affect people of all ages. The virus is more prevalent during the winter and early spring months.
Union Health Minister Nadda addressed concerns hours after three infants from Karnataka and Gujarat tested positive for HMPV. To ease public worry, he assured that the Union Health Ministry is fully prepared to handle any potential rise in respiratory illnesses.
HMPV, a well-known respiratory virus, has recently gained global attention due to an outbreak in China. It can affect people of all ages, causing respiratory infections.
Nadda further emphasized that a review of respiratory virus data from ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program (IDSP) shows no significant increase in respiratory viral cases in India. He reassured the public by saying, “India’s health systems and surveillance networks are fully equipped to respond swiftly to any emerging health issues. There’s no need to panic. We are closely monitoring the situation.”
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States Issue Health Advisory After HMPV
Delhi:
All hospitals in Delhi have been directed to stay fully prepared for a possible increase in respiratory illnesses. Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj has issued an urgent directive to closely monitor the situation and ensure constant coordination with the Union Health Ministry for timely updates.
Karnataka:
Karnataka’s health advisory urges citizens to wear masks in crowded areas to minimize the risk of infection. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao reassured the public, stating that there is no cause for panic as the infections are from older, non-life-threatening virus strains.
Maharashtra:
Although no cases have been reported in Maharashtra, an advisory has been issued urging citizens to maintain good hygiene in both personal and public spaces to prevent potential outbreaks.
Gujarat:
Gujarat’s Health Minister, Rushikesh Patel, assured that the state government is well-prepared to manage the viral infection. District health officers, civil surgeons, and sub-district hospital superintendents have been instructed to prioritize infection-related concerns.
How to Protect Yourself From HMPV?
Dos:
- Cover your mouth and nose with a handkerchief or tissue when coughing or sneezing.
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid public places if someone around you has a fever, cough, or sneezes.
- Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced, nutritious diet.
- Ensure proper ventilation in all areas to reduce the risk of infection.
Don’ts:
- Avoid handshakes, reusing tissue papers and handkerchiefs, close contact with sick individuals, and frequently touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Refrain from spitting in public spaces and taking medications without a doctor’s advice.
Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV. Treatment is supportive, depending on the severity of the infection. Mild cases typically require rest, proper hydration, and over-the-counter medications to manage fever and nasal congestion.
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FAQs
Q.1. What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?
Ans. HMPV is a respiratory virus that can affect individuals of all ages, causing symptoms from mild respiratory discomfort to severe complications, especially in infants, elderly, and those with weakened immunity.
Q.2. How does HMPV spread?
Ans. HMPV spreads through the air via respiration and is more prevalent during winter and early spring months.
Q.3. Are there any antiviral treatments for HMPV?
Ans. Currently, there is no specific antiviral medication for HMPV. Treatment is supportive, mainly involving rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications for mild symptoms.
Q.4. Is there a need to panic over HMPV?
Ans. No, the Indian government and health authorities have assured the public that there is no need to panic, as HMPV has been circulating globally for years and is not a new virus.
Q.5. What precautions can help prevent HMPV infection?
Ans. Wash hands frequently, wear masks in crowded areas, maintain good hygiene, avoid close contact with sick individuals, and ensure proper ventilation to reduce the risk of infection.
