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3 cases of HMPV found in the country

Bengaluru (Karnataka) – A virus called ‘Human Metapneumovirus’ (HMPV) is spreading rapidly in China. Now 3 patients have been found infected with this virus in India. In Bengaluru, 2 babies, a 3-month-old and another 8-month-old, have been infected. They are being treated at a hospital here. The babies have not traveled. Also, a 2-month-old baby has also been infected in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, who is also being treated.

Maharashtra State Govt issues advisory in the wake of HMPV outbreak in China

Pune – Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is spreading rapidly in China. The Maharashtra Health Department has issued a circular to the health administration and citizens in this regard, providing important instructions. The health department written a letter to the District hospitals, providing information and necessary instructions about HMPV.

The letter to the hospitals states that there is no cause of concern regarding the reports of the new virus coming from China. Necessary precautions are being taken in this regard and there is no need to create an atmosphere of unnecessary fear. However, in this context, the survey in our area of ​​work should be accelerated and regular survey reports of patients with cold and cough should be submitted.

The letter written by the Health Department states,

This virus is a major cause of acute respiratory infections. The virus was first identified in the Netherlands in 2001. It is a common respiratory virus. It causes upper respiratory tract infections (like the common cold). It is a seasonal disease, usually occurring in the winter and early summer, like RSV and the flu.

Appeal to follow the instructions

The Public Health Department has analyzed the respiratory infection statistics in the State. There has been no increase in it in December 2024 compared to the year 2023. As part of the vigilance, the Health Department has appealed to citizens to follow the instructions on DOs and DON’Ts to prevent respiratory infections.

DOs

1. When you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a handkerchief or tissue paper.

2. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizer.

3. Stay away from public places if you have a fever, cough, and cold.

4. Drink plenty of water and eat healthy.

5. Ensure adequate ventilation in all areas to reduce transmission.

DON’T

Avoid shaking hands. Avoid reusing tissue paper and handkerchiefs and close contact with sick people.

What is HMPV and its symptoms

HMPV is a respiratory virus that causes upper respiratory tract infections similar to the common cold, and Coronavirus. It is rapidly spreading in many parts of China; therefore, the Government officers are appealing to people to wear masks and wash hands often. The infection lasts for 3-5 days. It affects more during winter and the month of spring.

HMPV was first identified by Dutch researchers. The virus has been around for at least 60 years and is now known globally as a respiratory disease. The virus spreads mainly through coughing and sneezing. It can be contacted through a close infected person or even through polluted air.

HMPV is not dangerous – Dr Avinash Bhondave, former President of IMA (Maharashtra)

Dr Avinash Bhondave, former President of Indian Medical Association (Maharashtra) clarified that HMPV is spreading in China in 2025, but it is not a new virus. This pandemic hit even the USA and Canada a few years ago. This virus is like Corona but not in the category of Corona. The suffering caused by HMPV is comparatively less than that of Corona; therefore, the death rate is also less. An affected  person starts sneezing, his nose starts watering, throat-itching, fever, etc. With the rise in infection, it shows symptoms similar to pneumonia. Oxygen level can also drop but it is not a dangerous virus. It gets cured in 5-10 days with proper rest and a few medicines for fever.

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