• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

HMPV Outbreak In China: HMPV or human metapneumovirus is not a new virus but an old virus that is known to cause upper respiratory infections outbreaks. However, currently, China is reporting a surge in the same infection but is it really a concern for us? Winter season offers a good breeding ground for viral infections due to low wind speed and people tend to live in close spaces spreading any respiratory infection faster than usual. 

We in India see a surge in common influenza infection as well as RSV infection in children and not so commonly we do come across human meta pneumoviral infection also. So, considering the current situation, all these viral infections produce self-limiting infections and currently, no specific treatment is aligned for it, that is there is no antiviral antidote specie fiscally designed for it so does it cause a worry that we have got an infection with no antiviral against it? Dr Mayank Saxena, Additional Director - Pulmonology, Fortis Hospital Noida answers a few of these questions.

Symptoms: Symptoms can be similar to the common cold, like cough nasal discharge sore throat and fever with or without body aches. The patient may experience these symptoms for 3-4 days and then these symptoms Would slowly get down on themselves and just like any viral infection, the patient would be fully recovered in 5-6 days of period.

Rarely it will cause pneumonia deep lung infections or severe infections requiring hospitalisation. Moreover, these patients are specifically those who have low immunity and are on steroids/cancer treatments/elderly/ respiratory and high diabetes. Rarely children may also get severe symptoms but still, these symptoms are generally self-limiting only. 

Diagnosis: DNA multiplex PCR offers diagnostic results for the virus but it is not at all recommended in all patients with respiratory symptoms, tests are only reserved for patients with severe symptoms and these tests would cover not only the meta pneumovirus but also the most common viral and flu infections. Being very expensive and offers no additional benefits as treatment options remain limited so it is not necessary to get these tests done by yourself until your doctor prescribes it.

Treatment: treatment remains conservative and symptom-based, antibiotics are not indicated for treatment of HmPV and most patients would just need relief in their symptoms with adequate rest, hydration and a good diet.

However, those patients in high-risk zones are advised to consult a doctor for their symptoms so that they can be monitored for severity of symptoms and accordingly, treatment can be escalated if required. Antibiotics are only indicated if a doctor has diagnosed a secondary bacterial infection.

Prevention: just like any viral infection safety lies in social distancing using masks and avoiding close gatherings. If you are having risk factors and Comorbidities then using an N95 mask and controlling Comorbidities like diabetes and respiratory health do help in controlling symptoms. Avoid smoking, alcohol and a good lifestyle do offer preventive effects.

Is there a need to panic? 

There is no need to panic as it is just like another viral infection that prevails in the winter season. Still whenever you see any viral infection signs and symptoms prefer not to self-treat but consult a doctor so that the right diagnosis and treatment can be offered. 

ALSO READ: HMPV Outbreak In China: Kerala Health Minister Urges Elders, Pregnant Women To Wear Masks

ALSO READ: List Of Top 10 Most Dangerous Viruses In The World’s History: Ebola To Covid-19 That Shook The World

Also In News