DIMAPUR — In the wake of detection of a few
cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in some states in India, the directorate
of Health and Family Welfare (HFW), Nagaland, on Tuesday issued a ‘Public
Health Advisory.’
According to the advisory, HMPV, a respiratory virus, is not
a new virus as it was discovered in 2001 in the Netherlands.
HMPV is one of the common viruses responsible for
respiratory illnesses during the winter, along with influenza A, respiratory
syncytial virus (RSV), and adeno viruses.
“It causes upper and lower respiratory diseases in people of
all ages, especially among young children, older adults, people with
co-morbidities and weakened immune systems.
“Respiratory illnesses by HMPV are generally mild and
self-limiting,” the advisory stated.
The most common symptoms of HMPV are cough, fever, nasal
congestion, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, it may cause bronchitis
and pneumonia.
HMPV spreads from person to person through droplets from
coughing or sneezing, close personal contact such as touching or shaking hands,
touching contaminated surfaces, and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes, it
stated.
HMPV is one of the many respiratory viruses causing
infections in people of all ages, particularly during winter and early spring
months. Infection is usually a mild and self-limiting condition, and in most
cases, patients recover on their own, the advisory informed.
Preventive measure (similar to COVID-19)
• Washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least
20 seconds
• Avoiding touching the eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands
•
Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
• Covering the mouth and nose
when coughing or sneezing
• Cleaning frequently touched surfaces
• Staying at
home when sick
Symptomatic treatment includes staying hydrated, rest, drugs
for pain and respiratory symptoms, and oxygen support in severe cases.
While most cases resolve without treatment in three to six
days, the advisory also informed that there is no specific antiviral treatment
or vaccine for HMPV.
“For any respiratory illness, consult a health care worker,”
it added.
