Delhi Delhi. The outbreak of human metapneumovirus in China has raised health concerns, as cases of HMPV have been found in various cities in India, from Bengaluru to Chennai. Six cases of human metapneumovirus have been reported across the country, two of which in Bengaluru, one in There are one in Ahmedabad, one in Chennai and two in Chennai. Dr. Ayush Shukla, MBBS, said, “Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not a new virus, it already exists and is notorious for causing pneumonia and other respiratory illnesses, especially in children under 5 years of age and usually over 60. In immunocompromised adults over the age of 10, it tends to be slightly more severe, just like the common cold.”

Dr. Shukla said, “It's not really to do with the temperature, but the winter humidity, in fact the lack of it. Winters are dry and there is less moisture in the air. Thus, the lining of your respiratory tract , from the nose to your airways, is covered with hair-like cells that prevent dust and infectious particles from reaching your lungs.” “They work best when they're hydrated. But during the winter, the dry air makes it difficult for them to trap these particles, putting you at greater risk of infection or even simple allergies,” he said. “The solution is to stay hydrated, drink lukewarm water throughout the day and eat a balanced diet that will contribute to a healthy immune system.”