HMPV spreads to Maharashtra, 2 new cases identified

After Karnataka, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, new cases of the

human metapneumovirus

or the HMPV has been reported from Nagpur in Maharashtra. Two children in Maharashtra’s Nagpur have tested positive for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), taking the total tally to 7 in the country on Tuesday.
Until now, the cases were identified in infants; the two new cases have been identified in a seven-year-old and a 13-year-old.
The children were initially suspected to be infected with H1N1 (swine flu), but later polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests confirmed HMPV.

Read more: HMPV Symptoms: HMPV in India: 5 cases identified so far, know the symptoms across all age groups
Meanwhile, the Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra has taken a review of the present situation of respiratory illnesses in the country, as well as the status of public health measures for their management.
Earlier, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda said that India’s surveillance network remains vigilant, and the country is ready to respond promptly to any emerging health challenges.

Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava chaired a meeting with States/UTs in a virtual mode yesterday to review the present situation of respiratory illnesses in India and the status regarding the HMPV cases following media reports of surge in HMPV cases in China, and the public health measures for their management.

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is one of the many respiratory viruses that can cause infections in people of all ages particularly during the winter and early spring months. The virus infection is usually a mild and self-limiting condition and most cases recover on their own. It was informed that adequate diagnostic facilities are available with the ICMR-VRDL laboratories.
See more: HMPV Symptoms: Infants older adults more vulnerable; common symptoms to watch out for

The surge in human metapneumovirus or HMPV has triggered worldwide panic. Staggered cases of the viral infection have been detected in several countries including India and Malaysia, after an outbreak in China was reported.
Meanwhile in China experts have advised vaccination to control the spread of the infection. The three most common pathogens are influenza A, human metapneumovirus and mycoplasma, said Li Tongzeng, China Daily quoted chief physician at Beijing Youan Hospital’s infectious disease department saying. “He suggested the public get vaccinated as soon as possible before the Spring Festival, which falls on Jan 29 this year, to prevent infection when people migrate across the country to have family reunions. A vaccination typically takes about two weeks to take effect,” the report added.

hMPV virus: How it is spreading, symptoms and precautions

Dr Kuldeep Kumar Grover, Head of Critical Care and Pulmonology – CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram explains, when an infected person coughs or sneezes, they expel tiny droplets containing the virus into the air. These droplets can be inhaled by individuals nearby, potentially transmitting the infection.
1. Direct contact: Close contact with an infected person, such as touching their hands or face and then touching your own face (eyes, nose, or mouth), can facilitate the spread of hMPV. This emphasizes the importance of hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.
2. Contaminated surfaces: The hMPV virus can survive on surfaces for a period of time. Touching these contaminated surfaces (doorknobs, countertops, toys, etc.) and then touching your face before washing your hands can lead to infection.
In essence, hMPV spreads through a combination of airborne transmission (respiratory droplets), direct contact with infected individuals, and indirect contact through contaminated surfaces.
Key considerations:
1. Close proximity: The risk of transmission is significantly higher in crowded environments or situations involving close contact with infected individuals.
2. Vulnerable populations: Infants, young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are generally more susceptible to severe hMPV infection.
Common symptoms include cough, fever, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, and in some cases, wheezing or shortness of breath. Some individuals, particularly the very young, elderly, or those with weakened immune systems, may experience more severe respiratory conditions such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis
Supportive treatment for patients varies with the severity of the illness but generally treatment consists of fever reducers, antihistamines, breathing treatments and other means of providing comfort.
Tips to prevent HMPV:
1. Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
2. Cover your mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.
3. Consider wearing a mask and avoid contact with those who are sick
4. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
(With inputs from IANS)