INDIA STAY SAFE, ALERT! HMPV IS CORONA LIKE VIRUS

New Delhi/Jaipur: India confirmed 6 cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) on Monday. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) identified 2 cases in Karnataka through routine surveillance for respiratory viral pathogens, while 2 cases detected in Chennai, 1 case each in Kolkata and Ahmedabad.

In response to 2 cases in Karnataka, state govt has implemented immediate precautionary measures to curb the spread of the virus. Dr. Nirav Patel from Orange Children’s Hospital in Gujarat reassured public that infant diagnosed with HMPV is ready for discharge.While govts of Karnataka, Gujarat, and Maharashtra stated that there is no cause for alarm, Delhi govt instructed hospitals to remain on high alert in case of a potential rise in respiratory illnesses. Following the confirmation of five HMPV cases, the hashtag #lockdown trended on X, with some people fearing a situation similar to the Covid-19 pandemic.

SYMPTOMS OF HMPV

Cough, fever, nasal congestion, shortness of breath, and sore throat are a few symptoms of HMPV. These symptoms usually show up 3 to 6 days after you have been exposed to the virus. Severe illness due to the HMPV may require hospitalisation.

HOW IS HMPV TRANSMITTED?

HMPV spreads through direct contact with someone who has it. Touching contaminated surfaces, coughing, sneezing and shaking hands can spread the virus. If symptoms worsen, one may develop severe cough, wheezing and shortness of breath. In such cases, it is crucial to seek medical assistance immediately.

COMMON COLD V/S HMPV

HMPV usually causes symptoms similar to the common cold, but some individuals can get very sick. Those infected for the fi rst time with HMPV are more likely to get severely sick. Symptoms are milder if you get another HMPV infection.

ADVICE TO PREVENT HMPV

1. Wash hands with soap and water for atleast 20 seconds

2. Use an alcoholbased hand sanitiser

3. Cover your mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing

4. Consider wearing a mask and avoid contact with those who are sick

5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands

6. Practice self-isolation if you are sick

7. Individuals with preexisting lung diseases should be extra cautious and must follow all precautions

DUNGARPUR KID TESTS +VE IN GUJARAT

Rajasthan’s Health Department has issued alerts due to an increase in cases of Infl uenza-like Illness (ILI) across districts. Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khimsar said that the entire system has been alerted. Six cases have been reported in the country, including one in Gujarat, with the child in Gujarat being from Dungarpur, Rajasthan. Offi cials said that there is no immediate cause for panic, as such viruses emerge periodically and precautionary measures are being taken