Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases reported in India: Know precautions and status

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) has knocked in India. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 2 cases of HMPV have been reported in Karnataka. The Union Health Ministry has confirmed that HMPV infection is spreading in many other countries including India. Cases of respiratory diseases related to this are being recorded at various places.

Maharashtra government has issued an alert as a precautionary measure. The Health Department has shared important guidelines for people to avoid HMPV.

What to do and what not to do to prevent HMPV?

What to do:

1. Use a handkerchief or cloth while sneezing or coughing.
2. Use alcohol-based sanitizers regularly.
3. People affected by cold and cough should avoid going to public places.
4. Wear a mask if you have a cough or infection.

What not to do:

1. Avoid shaking hands with others.
2. Do not use the same tissue or handkerchief again and again.
3. Avoid spitting in public places.
4. If symptoms of infection appear, do not start the medicine without consulting the doctor.

HMPV cases reported in Karnataka

According to the Union Health Ministry, both cases of HMPV infection were reported in Bengaluru, Karnataka.

First case:

• Patient: 3 month old girl.
• Situation: The girl was suffering from bronchopneumonia.
• Treatment: Admitted to Baptist Hospital and later discharged.

Second case:

• Patient: 8 month old infant.
• Status: Admitted to Baptist Hospital on January 3.
• Treatment: HMPV was confirmed after testing. Now the baby’s health is improving.

Important: Both patients had no international travel history, making it clear that the infection spread locally.

Government and ICMR monitoring on HMPV

• The Union Health Ministry has assured to keep a close watch on the situation through all available monitoring means.
• ICMR will monitor the trends and cases of HMPV infection throughout the year.

What is HMPV?

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that causes respiratory infections.

• It particularly affects children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
• Symptoms: Cough, fever, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, bronchopneumonia.
• The virus spreads from one person to another through sneezing, coughing or contact with infected surfaces.