
HMPV Cases Highlights: Another HMPV case was reported in Mumbai on Wednesday. At least eight HMPV cases have been reported across India so far. Amid rising respiratory illness cases, the central government has advised states to step up surveillance.
Jharkhand Health Minister Dr Irfan Ansari instructed the Health Department on Wednesday to remain vigilant in preventing the spread of HMPV across the state. He has also asked officials to deploy medical teams at railway stations and airports across the state for heightened monitoring.
In a release, Dr. Ansari said, "People between 5 and 70 years of age are susceptible to this virus, and its symptoms closely resemble those of COVID-19." He further instructed health officials to deploy medical teams at railway stations, airports, and other critical locations to monitor and investigate potential cases.
On Monday, two cases were reported from Bengaluru in Karnataka, while a third tested positive after being hospitalised in Gujarat. The development comes even as China and other countries battle a major outbreak of viral fever and pneumonia.
What is the Human Metapneumovirus?
HMPV is a common respiratory virus that causes lower and upper respiratory infections. It is not a new discovery and cases have been reported from various countries over the years. There is no specific antiviral treatment for HMPV and prevention the cornerstone of controlling its spread.
HMPV virus symptoms and prevention
Common symptoms of HMPV infection include cough, cold, fever, etc. In some cases, infection may also lead to breathlessness, and nasal congestion.
HMPV virus prevention
To prevent HMPV infection, people must wash their hands regularly, maintain social distancing, wear masks. It is also advisable to isolate if you witness symptoms related to HMPV.