Many cases of Human Metapneumovirus i.e. HMPV have been reported in India so far. People are a little scared about HMPV. However, the Union Health Ministry has dispelled all the fears of the people and said that there is no need to panic about this virus. The government and the health department are fully prepared to deal with respiratory diseases. In view of the outbreak of HMPV in China, preparations are being made to control this virus at the global level. HMPV is like a normal flu which is an infectious disease. However, there is no need to panic or get into any kind of panic. 

Dr Rahul Pandit, member of the Maharashtra Covid Task Force and Supreme Court-appointed task force on respiratory diseases and head of the ICU unit of HN Reliance Hospital in Mumbai, said, "There is absolutely no need to panic about HMPV human pneumonovirus. This is not a new virus, it is an older virus than Covid. Its cases were found in the Netherlands in 2001. Every virus has mutations but it is not fatal. HMPV is just like normal flu pneumonia. We get more cases of other viral infections and diseases than this." 

How dangerous is HMPV?

The symptoms of HMPV are like those of cold and cough. The mortality rate is very low. People suffering from cancer, high sugar and other serious diseases need to take extra care. After infection, the patient recovers completely in seven days. 

Why is HMPV attacking children? 

Why is it being found more in children right now because antibodies are being produced in their bodies. Older people must have been cured of this, their bodies already have antibodies. Therefore, people should not panic, if cold and cough and fever do not subside in two to three days, then consult a doctor. Do not get yourself tested, there is no need to get admitted to the hospital.

How to avoid HMPV?

Just keep in mind the same precautions that were taken during Covid. For example, use a handkerchief if you have cold and cough. Wash hands immediately after coughing and sneezing. Follow the guidelines of ICMR. Do not pay attention to the things going viral on social media. This is a common virus, so no one needs to panic.