India’s First HMPV Cases Detected In Bangalore; What It Is, Symptoms & Precautions To Keep In Mind

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has confirmed two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Bangalore, Karnataka. One case involves an eight-month-old male infant, while the second involves a three-month-old female infant with a history of bronchopneumonia. Scroll on to know more about this disease.

Two Cases Of Human Metapneumovirus Confirmed In India

According to the Hindustan Times, as part of ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses across India, the ICMR detected these two cases of HMPV in Bangalore. The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) health department shared news of two babies testing positive for Human Metapneumovirus. As per reports, the infant and their families had no recent travel history and showed no concerning symptoms.

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been all over social media recently, especially videos showing hospitals in China reporting a surge in this respiratory illness. Reportedly, HMPV was first identified in 2001 by researchers in the Netherlands. It is a significant cause of acute respiratory infections where the virus primarily spreads through close contact with infected individuals. This could be through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, or by touching contaminated surfaces. This infection is more common in the winter and early spring.

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Symptoms & Precautions Of HMPV

HMPV has symptoms similar to the common cold and can cause pneumonia, asthma flare-ups, and even make chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) worse. Here are some symptoms of HMPV –

1. Cough
2. Fever
3. Runny/stuffy nose
4. Sore throat
5. Wheezing
6. Shortness of breath
7. Rash (rare)

Infected people require oxygen therapy, IV fluids, and corticosteroids to ease symptoms. Now, to prevent Human Metapneumovirus, one should –

1. Maintain hygiene and wash hands as often as possible with soap and water.
2. Also, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser when outside.
3. Keep your nose and mouth covered while sneezing or coughing.
4. Avoid being around others, if you feel sick with a cold or other contagious diseases.
5. Wear a mask if you feel sick.
6. Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose, and mouth.
7. Don’t share food or eating utensils with others.

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We hope this information was useful to you. Please keep safe and stay healthy.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva (representative image)