HMPV Virus in India: Everyone is terrified of a new pandemic after the HMPV breakout in China. India’s Bengaluru city has announced the first HMPV virus infection. Two HMPV cases have been identified in Karnataka by the Indian Council of Medical Research (IMR). As part of ICMR’s continuous efforts to track respiratory diseases nationwide, both instances were found via regular monitoring for many respiratory virus pathogens.

The respiratory virus known as human metapneumovirus (HMPV) was discovered for the first time in 2001. It has received more attention lately because of an increase in cases in China. For many years, individuals have been infected with HMPV, a minor respiratory virus. It belongs to the same family as other common respiratory viruses and usually affects the upper respiratory tract and causes flu-like symptoms. The director and head of the pulmonology unit at Fortis Memorial Research Institute in Gurugram, Dr. Manoj Goel, describes typical symptoms and strategies for avoiding contracting this virus.

HMPV symptoms
A runny nose
Nasal congestion and coughing
Sneezing and throat pain
Rarely, HMPV may cause life-threatening infections like pneumonia, particularly in young children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems. People with pre-existing lung illnesses like COPD, asthma, or bronchitis, or those with chronic conditions like diabetes, renal issues, or heart disease, may also be more susceptible to severe symptoms.

HMPV Prevention Strategies
Keep Yourself Clean: Regularly wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. When soap and water are unavailable, use hand sanitizers with an alcohol basis.

Avoid Close Contact: Stay far away from persons who are coughing or sneezing, which are signs of a respiratory infection.

Wear a Mask: Wearing a mask may help stop the spread of respiratory infections in crowded or poorly ventilated environments.

Boost Your Immunity: To fortify your immune system, eat a balanced diet, drink plenty of water, and engage in regular exercise.

Handle Chronic Conditions: To keep your condition under control if you have underlying medical conditions, take your prescription drugs as directed by your doctor.

Treatment and Recuperation: Since HMPV is a self-limiting virus, it often goes away on its own in a few days. Antibiotics and other drugs are usually unnecessary unless prescribed by a medical practitioner. The illness may be managed with rest, water, and over-the-counter symptom-relieving drugs. You can protect others and yourself against HMPV infection by being educated and taking the suggested precautions.