8 cases of HMPV virus like Corona, which is wreaking havoc in China, have been reported in India. Out of these, 7 cases have been found in children below one year of age, i.e. infants. While in the other two cases, the age of the children is 7 years and 13 years. The symptoms of this respiratory disease are similar to those of a common cold or flu. However, in some cases its symptoms can also turn into bronchitis and pneumonia. Infants, young children, the elderly and people with weak immunity are most at risk.
Children are at greater risk
Neonatologist and pediatrician Dr. R.D. Srivastava says that if we look at the statistics of the whole world, the maximum cases of HMPV virus are found in children aged 4 to 6 months. In India too, most of the cases have been seen in children below 1 year of age. Its cases are also being reported among adults in China, but weak immunity is the biggest factor in this.
When there is an infection of HMPV virus, the symptoms are similar to those of normal viral infection. Therefore, if small children have cold and fever, do not ignore it. Consult a doctor. If wheezing is heard in children’s breathing, it can be a sign of HMPV infection. Apart from this, what other symptoms can be seen
don’t panic
Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease Consultant Dr. Ankit Bansal says that until it is clear that the HMPV virus has mutated and its new mutation is dangerous, there is no need to panic about this virus. The Indian government has also clarified in its review meeting that HMPV is not a new virus. It has been present in India and other countries for many years. So far, no fatal situations have been seen due to it.
However, after the media reports coming from China, many experts speculate that a new mutant of HMPV is infecting people there. It is more dangerous and contagious than before. Despite this, there is nothing to fear about it in India yet.
According to a study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, more cases of respiratory infections are reported during the winter season as compared to other seasons. Therefore, do not panic over the common flu-like symptoms of HMPV. However, it is not right to ignore it either. Therefore, consult a doctor once. It would be better to try to avoid it.
How to protect yourself from HMPV
No antibiotic or antiviral medicine has been developed so far to fight the HMPV virus. No vaccine has been developed for it either. In such a situation, prevention is the best way to deal with this virus. If there is a small child in the house, then we should take special precautions.
Like the corona virus, the HMPV virus also spreads by coming in contact with an infected person. It can also spread by shaking hands with an infected person or by touching any object infected with the virus. Therefore, like corona, cleanliness and frequent hand washing are the main measures to prevent HMPV.
