"hmpv"

Chinese disease control experts urge public on multiple occasions how to take science-based protective steps

A private laboratory in Hyderabad disclosed they had in fact detected 11 HMPV positive infections last month

There is ample evidence indicating the link between gut-immunity and its influence on the body immune system. A balanced and strong gut microbiome can help maintain a robust immune response in fighting off viral infections, points out founding president of World Allergy Foundation, Dr Vyakaranam Nageshwar

Srivastava also advised the States to enhance awareness among the population regarding the prevention of transmission of the virus with simple measures such as washing hands often with soap and water; avoid touching their eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands; avoid close contact with people who are exhibiting symptoms of the disease; cover mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, etc

The children were initially suspected to be infected with H1N1 (swine flu), but later polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests confirmed HMPV. Both children recovered through outpatient care

There is a need for collective vigilance and taking preventive measures at individual level, said president, IMA, Hyderabad, Banjara Hills, Dr Prabhu Kumar Challagali.

Currently, there is no specific antiviral therapy and vaccine to treat HMPV

ICMR clarified that, according to current data from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) network, there has been no significant increase in cases of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) across the country.

Doctors in Hyderabad have observed a noticeable increase in viral fevers and chest infections over the past two weeks. Fortunately, all patients are recovering as expected. Medical professionals advise the public to follow essential winter precautions to stay healthy during this surge in respiratory illnesses.

HMPV is not an unknown virus; it occurs annually from July/August to December/January. In most cases, it leads to symptoms like cough, cold, and fever, but in some rare instances, it can result in severe illness requiring hospitalization, including oxygen support and ventilation. There is no specific antiviral treatment, and management is entirely symptomatic.

If an outbreak with potential to spread to other areas is detected, State government can check its spread very quickly, says Veena George

Number of laboratories to be enhanced, Indian Council of Medical Research to monitor trends all year

Antibiotics play no major role in infections but could potentially damage the child’s gut immunity. Hence desirable to avoid them and strictly avoid self medication, says Dr Vyakaranam

In an advisory on Saturday, the DPH, Dr B Ravinder Naik said that there was no cause for alarm regarding HMPV reports from China.

Several social media handles on X reported that due to circulation of multiple viruses including HMPV, Covid-19 and Mycoplasma pneumoniae, hospitals, crematoriums and other public health infrastructure was getting overwhelmed, forcing the Chinese Government to declare a health emergency