Bhubaneswar: With the recent outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in several cities across the country, Odisha residents are growing increasingly concerned about the potential health risks.
As the old adage goes, ‘precaution is always better than cure,’ it’s essential to know the symptoms, causes, and preventive measures to tackle HMPV before it’s too late.
What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a viral infection that typically presents with cold-like symptoms, often leading to upper respiratory issues. In severe cases, it can progress to lower respiratory infections, including pneumonia, asthma exacerbations, or worsening of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Notably, HMPV infections tend to peak during the winter and early spring months.
It is a type of virus that affects the respiratory system, leading to mild to severe illnesses. It was first identified in 2001 and has since been reported in various parts of the world.
Symptoms of HMPV
The symptoms of HMPV can range from mild to severe and may include:
- Respiratory problems: Coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and difficulty breathing
- Fever: High temperature, usually accompanied by chills
- Fatigue: Feeling weak and tired
- Headache: Mild to severe headaches
- Sore throat: Pain and discomfort in the throat
- Body aches: Pain and discomfort in the muscles and joints
If you’re experiencing symptoms of HMPV, seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor may prescribe antiviral medication or recommend rest and hydration to help manage your symptoms.
Causes of HMPV
- HMPV is highly contagious. The HMPV virus is a small germ that uses your cells to make more copies of itself. It’s part of the same group of viruses that cause RSV, measles and mumps. It can spread through:
- Direct contact: Touching or shaking hands with an infected person
- Airborne transmission: Inhaling the virus through respiratory droplets released by an infected person
- Contaminated surfaces: Touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching one’s face
Precautions to Prevent HMPV
To minimize the risk of contracting HMPV, follow these precautions:
- Wash your hands frequently: Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Use hand sanitisers: When soap and water are not available
- Avoid close contact: Maintain a safe distance from people showing symptoms of HMPV
- Cover your mouth and nose: When coughing or sneezing, use a tissue or your elbow
- Stay home when sick: Avoid going to work or school if you’re experiencing symptoms
- Get plenty of rest: Adequate rest can help boost your immune system
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help your body recover
Age Groups at Higher Risk of HMPV
Certain age groups and individuals with underlying health conditions are more susceptible to severe Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections. While most adults experience mild symptoms, children under 5 years old and older adults are at a higher risk of developing severe HMPV.
Additionally, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, liver disease, kidney failure or disease, those undergoing dialysis and cancer patients.
Stay Informed, Stay Safe
By being aware of the symptoms, causes, and precautions, you can minimize your risk of contracting HMPV. Stay informed, stay safe, and let’s work together to prevent the spread of this virus.
