After China and Malaysia, now three cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) have been confirmed in India as well. Two cases are from Karnataka and one case has been registered from Ahmedabad, Gujarat. All three cases have been reported in children under 2 years of age. After the cases of HMPV virus in India, there is a possibility of increasing danger here too. This is because this virus is proving to be very dangerous in China.

Will there be a danger from this virus in India as well? Is this virus also similar to Kovid? To know the answer to many such questions, we have talked to Rohan Krishnan, former president and now patron of FAIMA Doctors Association.

What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?

Dr. Rohan Krishnan explains that Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that causes respiratory diseases. It is a virus of the same group as RSV, measles viruses. The initial symptoms of HMPV are also similar to these viruses. In this, children may have cough, cold, fever and in severe cases, difficulty in breathing. Most cases of this virus are found in children and that too are seen more in children younger than 5 years.

How does HMPV spread?

HMPV spreads by coming in direct contact with a person who has it or by touching things contaminated with the virus. For example, by an infected person coughing and sneezing, shaking hands with an infected person or child, hugging, etc. Apart from this, this virus can also spread by touching surfaces or objects like door handles, keyboards or toys. If the virus is present on these surfaces and you have touched these things and then put your hand on your mouth or nose, then the virus can enter the body.

How is this virus tested?

Usually, HMPV is tested based on your symptoms and medical history. For this, a sample is taken from the nose or throat. You can use a soft tipped stick (swab) for the sample (as was done in the test for corona). After taking the sample of the virus, it is sent to the lab for testing.

What are the serious symptoms of HMPV?

Dr. Rohan explains that if you or your child is showing symptoms like high fever (more than 103 degrees Fahrenheit/40 degrees Celsius), difficulty in breathing, blueness of the skin, lips or nails (cyanosis), then you should immediately go to the hospital.

Is there a danger from HMPV in India too?

Of all the cases of common flu, 0.8 percent are of HMPV virus. That is, it is a virus that is present. But there is no need to panic in this. Most of the children infected with this virus have mild symptoms. This virus is not new either. It is already present. The cases that have come have no travel history, that is, this virus is present in India itself. In such a situation, there is a need to be alert, but there is no need to panic. It is important to take all necessary precautions regarding children.

Is this virus as dangerous as Covid?

Both Covid and HMPV cause respiratory problems, but HMPV is an old virus and cases of it have been reported before. It is not as dangerous as Covid, but still there is a need to be alert and take precautions.

How to prevent HMPV

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.

Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough – with your elbow, not your bare hand

If you are sick and cannot avoid being around others, consider wearing a mask

Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose and mouth