Minister Hasan Mushrif advised all medical college deans to remain prepared with necessary medicines, oxygen and isolation facilities. |
Even as the doctors at Dr LH Hiranandani Hospital in Powai have confirmed Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in a six-month-old baby and two other cases in Nagpur, Medical Education Minister Hasan Mushrif reassured the public that the disease is not severe, although young children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing serious conditions should take extra precautions.
Mushrif urged citizens not to panic, assuring them that the state government will soon issue comprehensive guidelines to control the spread of the virus.
Mushrif advised all medical college deans to remain prepared with necessary medicines, oxygen and isolation facilities. He also instructed them to coordinate with district collectors for additional supplies of medicine if needed.
Dr Indu Khosla, Paediatrician at SRCC NH Children’s Hospital, who also reported three positive HMPV cases last month, noted that the rise in HMPV identification is largely due to improved testing methods. “Previously, many respiratory infections were labelled as generic viral infections. Now, PCR tests allow us to identify specific viruses, including HMPV. These tests are costly and are usually reserved for severe cases,” she said.
Dr Lancelot Pinto, pulmonologist and epidemiologist at PD Hinduja Hospital, said, “HMPV cases have been detected all the time! Whole-genome sequencing will provide answers if this strain has increased virulence,” he explained.
Understanding HMPV
First identified in 2001, HMPV is a respiratory virus that causes symptoms such as cough, fever, nasal congestion and mild shortness of breath, often resembling the common cold. While HMPV infections are generally mild, they can pose serious risks to vulnerable groups, including children, elderly and people with weak immune systems.
Managing risks
Doctors and health experts are urging the public to remain calm and take standard precautions.
Dr Mala Kaneria, Consultant in Infectious Diseases at Jaslok Hospital, explained, “HMPV spreads through person-to-person contact and contaminated surfaces. Preventive measures like wearing masks, frequent hand washing, and isolating when unwell are crucial.”
Dr. Shehla Kazi, Paediatrician at Jaslok Hospital, said, “Most cases are mild and can be managed at home with rest and hydration. Severe cases may require hospitalisation.”
Dr Rajesh Chokhani, past president of Mumbai-Indian Academy of Pediatrics, opined, “HMPV has been around for years. Increased testing has allowed us to name these viruses, but most symptoms are indistinguishable. Only a small fraction of cases become severe.”
Preventive measures
Cover mouths and noses with a handkerchief or tissue when coughing or sneezing
Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizers
Those experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough, sneezing, or a cold are urged to consult a doctor
Consume adequate fluids, take prescribed medication, and maintaining a nutritious diet
Staying away from suspected patients to help curb the virus’s impact
