HMPV Virus: Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) virus is spreading very quickly in China. This virus has now slowly began spreading in India additionally. So far, 5 circumstances of this virus have been reported in India. Amidst all this, China’s Center for Disease Control and Prevention has knowledgeable concerning the demise charge as a result of virus.
“Children, immunocompromised populations, and the elderly are susceptible and more likely to be infected with other respiratory viruses,” China’s CDC stated. HMPV usually causes widespread chilly signs, together with cough, fever, nasal congestion, and cough. and wheezing, however typically in extreme circumstances it can result in bronchitis and pneumonia.”
Who can die from this virus?
The CDC additional stated, “If a susceptible person has a medical condition, infection with HMPV can lead to death. Based on data from an article published in Lancet Global Health in 2021, if children under five years of age have respiratory infections, there is a one percent chance of death due to HMPV. “There is currently no vaccine or effective drug against HMPV and treatment is mostly aimed at reducing symptoms.”
What would be the affect of this virus in India?
Amid considerations over the outbreak of HMPV in China, Director General of Health Services Dr. Atul Goyal assured the individuals of the nation that there is nothing to be fearful concerning the present state of affairs. He urged individuals to take common precautions. Speaking to the media, Dr. Goyal emphasised that hospitals are nicely ready for respiratory infections.
He stated, “HMPV is like any other respiratory virus that causes the common cold. It can cause flu-like symptoms in the very old and very young children. We have collected data on respiratory outbreaks within the country. “In any case, there is no vital enhance in the variety of respiratory infections in 2024 and our hospitals are totally ready for this with the mandatory provides and beds.”
Also learn: After Karnataka-Gujarat, now two new circumstances of HMPV virus surfaced in Chennai.