(VOR News) – Amid escalating fears about the detection of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in India, various health specialists have emphasised that the virus is not novel and have advised the public to remain calm and adopt appropriate safeguards.
Recently, HMPV, implicated in upper respiratory infections, has attracted attention due to an outbreak in China. Individuals of any age may be impacted; however, specialists indicate that India has not experienced a notable rise in the number of cases.
The majority of HMPV transmission occurs by air, particularly in winter and spring.
The human papillomavirus (HPV) was originally identified in 2001. Although the virus poses an emerging health risk, there is no cause for alarm. Dr. Aabid Amin Bhat, Medical Director at Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, states, “To effectively manage its spread, it is crucial to possess a comprehensive understanding of its symptoms, implement necessary precautions, and meticulously follow testing protocols.”
He said that the symptoms commonly linked to an HMPV infection include coughing, fever, fatigue, respiratory illness, sore throat, myalgia, and, in certain cases, gastrointestinal issues. The doctor advises obtaining medical assistance if such symptoms occur.
Dr. Madhu Nahar Roy, the Director of Internal Medicine at Paras Health Udaipur, underscored the importance of implementing preventative measures.
Dr. Madhu asserted that effective strategies to mitigate transmission risk encompass exemplary hygiene practices, including frequent handwashing, wearing masks in crowded environments, and maintaining physical distance from sick individuals.
He asserts that it is essential to enhance immunity through a nutritious diet, adequate sleep, and regular physical exercise. Specific laboratory methods, like real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), can identify the virus’s genetic material.
While antibody testing can indicate previous exposure to HMPV.
Dr. Madhu stated that imaging modalities such as chest X-rays or CT scans may be recommended for severe cases to assess respiratory involvement.
According to Dr. Balram Bhargava, Director General of the former Department of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), India’s substantial preparedness against HMPV is founded on the extensive infrastructure and skills acquired during the COVID-19 pandemic.
We are well equipped to handle any outbreaks of this nature due to our proactive and swift testing capabilities, built through the meticulous use of technologies like TrueNat.
The president stated, “We have unequivocally shown that India was not only self-sufficient in testing during the COVID-19 pandemic but also proficient in exporting testing kits globally.” In the latter half of the previous year, Dr. Bhargava assumed the role of independent director of Molbio Diagnostics.
The world will persistently confront challenges presented by novel health threats, particularly in light of the introduction of diverse viruses and parasites. He asserted that under circumstances such as these, it is imperative for all individuals to uphold a level of vigilance and proactivity while addressing the HMPV threat.
Adhering to the latest immunisation guidelines established by the public health authority and upholding rigorous personal hygiene are crucial measures individuals can undertake to safeguard their health.
“He stated that we can all enhance our community’s resilience to health crises by remaining informed and engaging in preventive health measures.” “We can enhance our community’s health by remaining informed.
Dr. Ashok Kumar Singh, a distinguished physician at Regency Hospital in Kanpur, specialising in pulmonary and critical care medicine, emphasised that enhancing public knowledge could significantly contribute to mitigating the incidence of HMPV.
Individuals must remain informed via reputable sources and adhere to public health directives. The most efficacious strategies available to combat the virus are early detection and preventative measures. He asserted that by collaborating and implementing preventative measures, we can safeguard public health and mitigate the virus’s detrimental impacts.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) states that the human papillomavirus (HMPV) is globally prevalent, including in India, and there has been no notable rise in cases of influenza-like illness (ILI) or severe acute respiratory illness (SARI).
The administration has conveyed assurance in the nation’s capacity to handle any prospective rise in respiratory diseases, as articulated by the government.
SOURCE: BS
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