Since the COVID-19 pandemic, people have been terrified at every viral outbreak.
With cases of HMPV already recorded in Bangalore, it becomes necessary for us to take precaution to prevent another such devastating pandemic in our country.
The virus known as human metapneumovirus (HMPV) typically produces symptoms that resemble a cold. You may have a sore throat, runny nose, cough, or wheeze.
Young children, those over 65, and those with compromised immune systems are more susceptible to serious illness, even if the majority of cases are minor.
Although it frequently results in upper respiratory infections, it can also exacerbate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
It can also trigger flare-ups of asthma, or cause lower respiratory infections like pneumonia.
Winter and early spring are when HMPV infections are most prevalent.
After your initial infection, you develop some immunity, which increases your risk of experiencing mild, cold-like symptoms if you contract HMPV again.
Although they are not the same, human metapneumovirus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are comparable. It belongs to the same genus and may present with comparable symptoms.
HMPV is caused by a virus, which is a little microorganism that uses your cells to replicate. It belongs to the same family of viruses that cause mumps, measles, and RSV.
HMPV is transmitted by direct contact with an infected person or by coming into contact with infected objects.
Coughing and sneezing, hand shaking, kissing, embracing, and touching things like toys, door handles, phones, or computers are some ways it can spread.
Complications from HMPV can occasionally include bronchiolitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, flare-ups of asthma or COPD, and otitis media, or ear infections.
Human metapneumovirus cannot be treated with antiviral drugs. Until they feel better, the majority of people can manage their symptoms at home.