HMPV Outbreak: ‘Not a New Virus, Known for Over 20 Years’ – Leading Doctors
Leading doctors and government healthcare agencies advice not to panic and stay cautious about the HMPV outbreak: Image for representation
While the whole world in on tenterhooks due to the latest outbreak of HMPV, the government healthcare agencies and leading doctors are reassuring that this is not a new virus and has been known to mankind for over 20 years now.
Dr Suresh Gupta, Paediatrics, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital says, “This is not a new virus, this is an old virus, it is known for more than 20 years. It comes particularly in winter season, it is like influenza virus, normal viral fever. In most of the cases, the symptoms are cold, cough, fever, and they are self limiting. With general medicine, they settle down at home. Most of the children who get this infection, do not require hospitalisation. So mostly it is a mild infection.”
VIDEO | Dr Suresh Gupta, Paediatrics, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital speaks on seriousness of HMPV (Human metapneumovirus) outbreak in China.
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 4, 2025
He says, "This is not a new virus, this is an old virus, it is known for more than 20 years. It comes particularly in winter season, it is like… pic.twitter.com/Vy9sIrZMM2
What is HMPV
According to Cleveland Clinic, Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that usually causes symptoms similar to a cold. You might cough or wheeze, have a runny nose or a sore throat. Most cases are mild, but young children, adults over 65 and people with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk for serious illness. HMPV is common — most people get it before they turn 5.
What are the symptoms of human metapneumovirus?
Symptoms of human metapneumovirus include:
- Cough
- Fever
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
- Rash
How to Prevent HMPV Infection
You can reduce your risk of getting HMPV and other infectious diseases by:
- Washing your hands often with soap and water. If you aren’t able to use soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Cover your nose and mouth — with your elbow, not your bare hand — when you sneeze or cough.
- Avoid being around other people when you or they are sick with a cold or other contagious diseases.
- Consider wearing a mask if you’re sick and can’t avoid being around others.
- Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose and mouth.
- Don’t share food or eating utensils (forks, spoons, cups) with others.
What DGHS Says About HMPV in India
Amid concerns over the outbreak of the HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) in China, Dr Atul Goel, Director-General of Health Services, reassured the public that there is nothing to be alarmed about the present situation, urging people to take general precautions.
Speaking to the media, Dr Goel emphasized that hospitals are well-prepared for the seasonal surge in respiratory infections.
“Metapneumovirus is like any other respiratory virus that causes common cold, and in very old and very young it could cause flu-like symptoms. We have analysed the data of the respiratory outbreaks within the country, there is no such substantial increase in 2024 data. In any case during winter, there is an outbreak of respiratory infections and our hospitals are fully prepared for that with the necessary supplies and beds,” he said.
“I want to request the public to take general precautions, which means, those who have cough and cold should prevent coming in contact with other people to prevent the spread and take normal medicines prescribed for cold and fever… Otherwise, nothing to be alarmed about the present situation,” Dr Goel added.
Meanwhile, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) under the Union Health Ministry is closely monitoring respiratory and seasonal influenza cases in the country, and is in touch with international agencies, according to Official sources.
Disclaimer: This article is for information only and its contents are based on information available in public domain. Punenow News and its authors do not claim knowledge on healthcare and medical science nor guarantee accuracy of information provided above. It is strongly advised to consult a healthcare professional for most accurate information and advice on the subject discussed in this article. The article makes every effort not to spread panic and the readers are advised to rely only on official statements from government authorities on this matter.
