Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) india

HMPV is a new dangerous respiratory virus that is spreading so fast in China that there are very high chances of it reaching India in the next 40 days. HMPV, or Human Meta -Pneumovirus, was first identified in 2001 by Dutch researchers.

This virus has been spreading in humans for many years, but it has been tracked now. To spread it, close contact should be done with an infected person who transmits respiratory droplets through sneezing and coughing.

Poor ventilation and crowded spaces increase its transmission and the current time, which is between winter and spring, is ideal to spread it. No symptoms are seen for 3 to 6 days and after that symptoms like COVID -19 come Cough, fever, nuzzle congestion, sore throat and shortness of breath. In extreme cases, bronchiolitis, pneumonia and asthma flare -ups can occur which is fatal for many people. Because it is a new disease, its vaccine and antiviral medicine have not been made yet.

So pay attention to hygiene, wear a mask in crowded areas and maintain good ventilation at home. If you feel any symptoms please go to your nearest doctor.

Symptoms of HMPV:

• Cough
• Fever
• Nasal/nuzzle congestion
• Sore throat
• Shortness of breath

But In extreme cases bronchiolitis, pneumonia and asthma flare -ups

DO’s in HMPV

• Maintain Hygiene
• Practise Social Distancing
• Seek Medical Help if Symptoms Occur
• Eat a Healthy Diet
• Drink Plenty of Water
• Take Good Care of Elders & Kids
• Stay away from public places if you have fever, cough and sneezing
• Avoid crowded places
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze

Don’ts in HMPV

• Reuse of tissue paper & hand kerchief
• Avoid Touching Your Face
• Avoid Stepping Out Without a Face Cover
• Don’t Ignore Government-issued Advice
• Don’t Panic
• Spiting in public places
• Frequent touching of eyes, nose & mouth

Treatment for HMPV

There is currently no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV. Management mainly focuses on supportive care to alleviate symptoms. Recommended treatments include:

• Rest and hydration: Essential for helping the body recover
• Over-the-counter medications: Fever reducers and pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• Nasal decongestants and saline sprays: To ease congestion and improve breathing
• Humidifiers: To add moisture to the air, helping soothe irritated airways
• Oxygen therapy: For severe cases, especially those with breathing difficulties
• Bronchodilators: Medications to open up airways in patients experiencing wheezing or shortness of breath
• Antibiotics: Prescribed only if a secondary bacterial infection, such as an ear infection, develops

Antiviral drugs are not routinely recommended for HMPV infections, as they are not effective against viruses. The primary focus is on early detection and managing symptoms.

Who Is at Risk of Human Metapneumovirus Infections?
While anyone can get HMPV, those at higher risk are:

• Newborns
• Children under 5
• People older than 65
• People with asthma
• People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• People with weakened immune system  like cancer or HIV

Prevention of HMPV

Preventing the unfold of HMPV calls for a complete approach that emphasizes private hygiene, shielding measures, and responsible behavior. Here are key techniques for prevention:

Personal Hygiene

- Wash your fingers frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use a hand sanitizer with at the very least 60% alcohol.

- Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nostril, and mouth, with unwashed arms.

Wear Masks

- Use masks in crowded locations or areas with active HMPV transmission, particularly interior or while preserving bodily distance is hard.

Social Distancing

- Keep a distance of at least 1 meter (three feet) from all of us who is coughing or sneezing.

Ventilation

- Allow air in and out of the house by opening windows and doors.

Respiratory Etiquettes

- It is recommended to cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.

Stay Informed

- Follow the guidelines issued by the Govt. and your healthcare provider.

Stay Home When Sick

- if you have symptoms like cold, a cough, or a hard time breathing issue, stay at home.

Clean and Disinfect Surfaces

- Clean all the surfaces that you touch all the time.

Travel Safely

- No travel advice should be ignored, but should rather be followed closely during the outbreak of HMPV.

By practicing these measures, both individuals and communities will help abundantly bring down HMPV transmission rates and safeguard the high-risk groups.