Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection: All your queries answered here.
1. Is it a new virus?
No, it was identified in 2001, and has been in circulation for at least 50 years.
2. Is it new in India?
No, many hospitals in many parts of India have been reporting HMPV infections for the past several years.
3. Has there been an increase in cases of HMPV infection?
No
4. Can HMPV infection become a pandemic similar to COVID?
No
5. Who are more prone to get infected with HMPV?
Children below 5, older people above 65, and those with poor immunity.
6. What are the symptoms?
Fever, cough, runny nose, breathing difficulty.
7. How is it diagnosed?
RT-PCR on naso-pharyngeal secretions (swab) test. BIOFIRE tests for many respiratory infections, including HMPV. Most labs and hospitals are equipped to test for HMPV.
8. Is the infection severe?
In 90-95% cases, it is mild. It can become severe in 5-10% requiring hospitalization.
9. Is it fatal?
Fatality is low, lesser than 1%
10. Is there a specific drug for HMPV?
No
11. How is it treated?
Supportive care, including paracetamol for fever, hydration, and oxygen (if needed)
12. Is there a vaccine?
No
13. How does it spread?
Through droplets, close contact, fomites
14. What precautions to be taken?
Those with symptoms should stay at home; avoid close contacts with infected persons; avoid shaking hands; wear mask in public places.
15. When to see a doctor?
Most infected would recover in a few days. If symptoms last for 5 days or more, or if there is breathing difficulty, consult a doctor.
Be safe, be healthy, take precautions, do not panic!
Dr.Robin Jeya Bensam MBBS, AFIH, FCIP, FRSH(Lon)
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