The Union Health Ministry of India addressed public concerns on January 4, urging calm amidst reports of a potential spread of Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) in China. The ministry emphasized that India is well-prepared to manage respiratory illnesses and stated that the situation in China is “not unusual.”
What is Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV)?
- Discovery: Identified in 2001 by Dutch scientists.
- Nature: A common respiratory virus causing upper respiratory infections similar to a cold.
- Seasonality: Most prevalent during winter and early spring, akin to RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) and influenza.
Who is at Risk?
Children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are more vulnerable to severe symptoms and complications.
Transmission:
hMPV spreads through:
- Close contact with an infected person.
- Contaminated surfaces like toys or doorknobs.
- Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing.
Symptoms:
Typically mild and lasting 2-5 days, symptoms include:
- Cough
- Runny nose or nasal congestion
- Sore throat
- Fever
Prevention Tips:
- Maintain good hygiene by washing hands frequently.
- Avoid close contact with sick individuals.
- Regularly disinfect commonly touched surfaces.
- Stay home if experiencing symptoms to prevent spreading the virus.
(Source: American Lung Association)
