Himachal Government On Alert Over HMPV Cases But Urges People Not To Panic

The Indian and Himachal Pradesh governments have classified the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) as a common virus, despite recent discussions. It primarily affects children.

Himachal Pradesh News: The rising cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) have put governments on alert. The Himachal Pradesh government is also on high alert and has made necessary preparations in case of infections in the state. On Tuesday, Health Minister Dhani Ram Shandil held an important meeting at the state secretariat in Shimla.

Dhani Ram Shandil said that HPMV is not a ‘virus of concern’. It should be treated like a common virus. It can be easily prevented. He said that the state health department, including the Union Health Ministry, is keeping a close watch on the HPMV status. 

So far, cases of influenza-like illness and severe acute respiratory illness across the country are at a normal level. No unusual increase in such cases has been recorded in Himachal either. This is not a new virus. It has been in circulation in India and other countries since 2001. Every year, adults and children are affected by this virus. 

Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda, too, has asked people not to panic.

Symptoms of HMPV

The HMPV belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, alongside other viruses like respiratory syncytial virus. It was first identified in 2001 in the Netherlands, but serological evidence suggests it has been around for at least 50 years.

Common symptoms of this virus are cough, fever and runny nose. This infection spreads through coughing, sneezing, touching or shaking hands. If anyone has symptoms of cough or fever, they should go to the nearest health centre.

Such a patient should get themselves checked and avoid contact with anyone. Infection from patients can be prevented by taking protective measures such as wearing a mask, washing hands with soap regularly, covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, and resting at home, if sick.