China has once again become a matter of concern for the whole world. For the past few days, a new virus HMPV (HMPV Virus Bangalore) has been creating panic here. Many countries are taking precautions amid the rapidly increasing cases of this virus. Meanwhile, news of concern has come to light in India regarding this. In fact, two cases of this virus (India HMPV Virus) have been reported in the country. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) itself has confirmed this.
As soon as the case of this virus came to light in the country, the government has come on alert mode. Along with this, guidelines have also been issued regarding this. This virus is considered more dangerous for children, because in China too it is making children its victims. In such a situation, today we will tell you in this article whether it can be as dangerous as HMPV and whether it can prove to be a threat to the country.
Two cases of HMPV found in Karnataka
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has confirmed two cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka (Bengaluru baby HMPV case). Regarding this, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said that these cases have been detected in ICMR's ongoing routine checkup to monitor respiratory diseases across the country.
What is HMPV virus?
Dr. Renu Soni, MD (Respiratory Medicine), Consultant Pulmonologist at NIIMS Medical College, Greater Noida, said that Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that primarily affects the lungs and airways. This virus was first identified in the year 2001.
It is a major cause of respiratory infections, primarily affecting young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immunity. The virus can cause a variety of illnesses, from common cold-like symptoms to more severe respiratory conditions such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
Is this a new virus?
HMPV is not a new virus. As the doctor said and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also stated, it was first discovered in the Netherlands in 2001. This virus comes from the Pneumoviridae family, of which RSV is also a member.
How is HMPV similar to COVID-19?
This virus spreading in China is being considered as dangerous as COVID-19. Even though these two viruses belong to different viral families, they have many similarities, due to which HMPV is being considered dangerous
Respiratory illness – Both viruses primarily target the respiratory system, causing mild or severe infections.
Transmission – Like COVID-19, HMPV can spread through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces.
Symptoms – The symptoms of COVID-19 and HMPV are largely similar, including fever, cough, sore throat, wheezing and difficulty in breathing.
Who is more at risk- Children, the elderly and people with weak immunity are at greater risk of HMPV like Covid-19.
Preventive measures: These viruses can be prevented from spreading by taking care of cleanliness, washing hands frequently, wearing masks and following rules like social distancing.
Is there a vaccine for HMPV?
There are many similarities between HMPV and COVID, but there is a lot of difference when it comes to vaccines. Currently, there are effective vaccines available for COVID-19, but there is currently no vaccine available for HMPV. Apart from this, antiviral treatments for HMPV are also limited.
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Ravi Thakur
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