Human Metapneumovirus an apparently new respiratory virus but has HMPV-positive twos ahs now seen first-time cases in India. Both cases were identified and treated as those two infants aged three months old as a girl child and eight months old boy are medically confirmed positive for HMPV in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The younger one has been successfully treated and discharged, while the elder is still being treated in the hospital.
What is HMPV?
In addition to providing cough, fever, nasal congestion, and sore throat, it has been classified as a respiratory virus causing illness resembling the common colds. Usually, HMPV infections result in light ailments. In some cases, however, severe illnesses are caused, such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia, particularly in children under 5 years old, elderly people, and individuals with compromised immunity. There is currently no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine against HMPV, meaning treatment is symptomatic.
Global Aspects
Amid the spike in patients with respiratory symptoms in China, HMPV has found newly identified cases in India. Hospitals in the country are already teeming with patients displaying respiratory symptoms. In late December 2024, the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention kicked off the results, HMPV accounting for 6.2% of positive tests for respiratory illnesses and 5.4% of hospitalizations for respiratory illnesses.
Prevention
With no available vaccine, preventive measures take center stage:
– Hygiene of Hands: Washing hands thoroughly and regularly with soap and water.
– Respiratory Hygiene: Cover one’s mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow during coughing or sneezing.
-Avoid Close Contact Stay away from coughing individuals.
-Hygiene: Regular cleaning and sanitizing surfaces that often require touching.
Government response.
The Indian Health Ministry monitors the ongoing situation and issues guidelines to healthcare facilities to enhance surveillance and preparedness. Advisories to the public were also released by state health departments in Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Delhi on hygiene practices and the need for seeking medical consultation as soon as respiratory symptoms develop.
Conclusion
The emergence of HMPV cases in India emphasizes keeping a watchful eye and a recommendation to follow preventive health measures. In general, the virus causes mild disease but could present with serious respiratory disease in at-risk populations. The monitoring continues by public health authorities to guard against further transmission and in order to safeguard public health.