HMPV in India: Gujarat’s Ahmedabad reported a suspected case of the Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in a two-month-old baby at a private hospital in Chandkheda. This comes after two cases of HMPV virus were reported in Karnataka.
According to a report by Gujarat Samachar, the baby’s condition is stable, and there is no immediate cause for major concern. On Sunday, the Gujarat government has issued an advisory, urging the public to follow preventive measures, including wearing masks, frequent handwashing, and boosting immunity.
Meanwhile, health experts have also cautioned against the misuse of antiviral drugs, as there is no vaccine for HMPV.
Currently, the virus is spreading at an alarming rate in China. All three cases recorded in India are in babies younger than a year.
What are the symptoms of HMPV?
Symptoms of human metapneumovirus include:
- Cough.
- Fever.
- Runny or stuffy nose.
- Sore throat.
- Wheezing.
- Shortness of breath (dyspnea).
- Rash.
How to HMPV infection is treated?
According to Cleveland Clinic, there aren’t any antiviral medications that treat human metapneumovirus. If you or your child is severely ill, they might treat you with:
- Oxygen therapy. If you’re having a hard time breathing, a provider may give you extra oxygen through a tube in your nose or mask on your face.
- IV fluids. Fluids delivered directly to your vein (IV) can keep you hydrated.
- Corticosteroids. Steroids can reduce inflammation and might ease some of your symptoms.
