HMPV Cases LIVE in India : Consider Wearing Masks in Crowded
HMPV Cases: HMPV is on the Rise – Mask Up in Crowded Places
The identification of cases of HMPV, especially when juxtaposed with the HRV, has hoisted the alarm bells. K.K. Sharma said, “HRV was quite prevelant across states in or around October and may have clashed with the HMPV”. Reports from China regarding an outbreak also fueled fears. There have been eight confirmed cases of HMPV in India of which two were also reported by Rajendra R. Khade.
Last week, MP reported 6 new cases as well.
Out of the eight, six have already been discharged and two had already been under treatment for weeks. It would require massive government intervention or the cases are expected to peak in January or February as well. The estimated positivity rate is pegged at anywhere between 2%-5%
HMPV Cases – What is it?
HMPV can lead to serious breathing symptoms like severe bronchiolitis and even respiratory illness. All severe breathing issues fall under HMPV. For example, Inu Zubai found that Pneumonia in which the respiratory rate is lesser than normal with a fast heart rate is severe breathing issue along with wheezy sounds, which is classified as HMPV. Most cases can be treated at homes after which a few older patients may leave for larger hospitals.
Vaccines? Do they exist?
Currently an outbreak seems to coincide with the grinding hyper awareness of Ampng core symptoms surrounding MPB, choking on dry membranes where a nagging cough or inflammation occurs. This is until a vaccine comes along. During the dialogue HMPV was mentioned alongside VZV and one study from Office said HMPV or VZV vaccine targets serve particular functions.
According to MP cases are expected to increase but suitable medicines according to Dr. Hitesh do exist. HMPV seem to affect the immune cells as there are dominant targeting ighton cells in the lungs.
See a doctor immediately if you have extreme symptoms: People in any high-risk category or those with extreme symptoms should see a physician without delay.
Put on a mask in densely populated areas: It is good to put on a mask in places where there are lots of people or in places which have limited airflow.
Be mindful of hygiene:
When coughing or sneezing, always use a tissue or your elbow to shield your mouth.
When possible wash your hands with soap and water regularly.
Get vaccinated: Ensure that other healthcare professionals’ recommendations for vaccination are followed through.
HMPV Risk Evaluation
WHO says, an increase in respiratory illnesses over the winter may be commonplace. The co-existence of viruses like influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) during a season may put pressure on healthcare systems. However, such tendencies may be quite commonplace as well.
Measures Taken by the State Governments
Chhattisgarh
A technical committee chaired by Dr. S.K. Pambhoi has been established by the Chhattisgarh government to review cases of HMPV. The committee is authorized to develop prevention recommendations and to provide periodic updates to the state’s Ministry of Health.
Maharashtra
In contrast to COVID-19, this virus is weaker and there is no reason to panic, he said. The health department is coping well with the situation, said Prakash Abitkar, Maharashtra’s Minister of Health.
Expert Insights
Infection Trends
In comparison with southern areas, WHO has noted that Northern Hemisphere HMPV infections are seasonal. The virus is among the so termed winter cocktail of respiratory viruses such as influenza and RSV.
Pediatric Impact
According to Paul Hunter who is a professor at the East Anglia University, Professor Paul Hunter said near every child gets the infection by the time they are five years old, and they get multiple infections throughout their lives.
Not Like COVID-19
As opposed to the coronavirus which caused a crisis worldwide because of the fact that it was new, HMPV has been around for a number of years. Most people have some degree of template immunity against it and so the virus is not as worried in its effect.
Rising Cases in China: A Seasonal Phenomenon
WHO official Margaret Harris described the increase in respiratory infections including HMPV in China as expected with the seasonal change. “China has a good surveillance systems of ‘influenza like’ illnesses and these trends are not unusual and occur in winter” she said.
Conclusion
Thus while the cases of HMPV are increasing there are a few measures which if taken will render further increase of the new virus manageable. There are other simple measures which may come in handy including wearing masks, cleanliness and reporting for medicine on time. Public safety is being ensured as the health authorities are constantly scrutinizing the situation.
