After three cases of human metapneumovirus (HMOV) were reported in Karnataka and Ahmedabad, concerns have been rising among Indians, with many panicking and comparing the outbreak to that of COVID-19.
Reportedly, an eight-month-old and a three-month-old were the first reported cases of HMPV in India. Later, a two-month-old also tested positive in Ahmedabad.
Several reports and social media posts suggest that multiple viruses, including influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and COVID-19, are circulating in China.
If the reports are making you anxious, don't worry! You can keep the respiratory disease at bay by simply following a few safety tips!
All about HMPV
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As per Only My Health, human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that causes cold-like symptoms such as coughing, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath.
While it generally leads to mild illnesses in healthy adults, it can result in severe complications for young children and individuals with weakened immunity or other respiratory diseases.
Is HMPV like any other common cold virus?
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While HMPV shares similarities with other respiratory viruses like the flu or RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), experts emphasise that early attention is crucial, as it can cause more severe symptoms in vulnerable populations.
In a conversation with India Today, Dr Manisha Mendiratta, Associate Director & Head of Pulmonology at Sarvodaya Hospital, explained that the disease usually produces mild to moderate flu-like symptoms but can become severe in people with low immunity.
Dr Srivatsa Lokeshwaran, Lead Consultant, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru, added, "It's premature to compare HMPV with Covid-19. HMPV has been in circulation for a long time and primarily affects children under five and adults over 65."
Another key difference lies in vaccination availability. While effective vaccines exist for Covid-19, no vaccine is available for HMPV. According to a Reuters report, there has been a rise in respiratory infections driven by influenza A, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, COVID-19, and HMPV, causing growing concern.
10 Must-follow safety tips to keep HMPV at bay
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• Make sure to cover your mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing to prevent escalation of the spread of the virus.
• Wear a mask while in public places or at the workplace.
• Avoid public or crowded places if you are symptomatic. Additionally, refrain from close contact with sick people.
• Do not reuse tissue papers or handkerchiefs, and do not share towels and linen.
• Avoid spitting in public places.
• Do not touch your mouth, nose or eyes before sanitising your hands or before washing them.
• Maintain hygiene and wash your hands frequently with soap for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
• It’s best to isolate yourself when you’re sick. Why put your loved ones at risk?
• Be extra cautious if you’re dealing with preexisting lung diseases.
• Seek medical assistance immediately if you have severe cough, wheezing and shortness of breath.
Protect yourself and your loved ones from this respiratory threat!
Social and lead image credits: Freepik
