Director of Public Health and Family Welfare K. Padmavathi said on January 5, 2025 (Sunday) that there were no Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in Andhra Pradesh, and there was no reason to panic about the spread of the virus that was identified in China.
In a press release, Dr. Padmavathi said the virus spreads from one person to another like the Coronavirus, and mostly affects children, the elderly, and individuals with low immunity.
How it spreads and symptoms
“The virus spreads through droplets expelled by coughing or sneezing, close contact, handshakes, and touching, and if the virus is present on surfaces, coming into contact with those surfaces and then touching one’s mouth, nose, or eyes can cause the infection,” she said.
Symptoms typically appear within three to 10 days of exposure, and the infected persons might exhibit symptoms resembling common cold (flu), and including cough, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat, and respiratory issues. In some cases, the HMPV might cause severe respiratory conditions such as pneumonia and bronchitis.
Dr. Padmavathi said precautions similar to those followed during the COVID-19 pandemic have to be taken to prevent the likely spread of HMPV. She recommended self-isolation for individuals showing symptoms.
Supportive care
Those suspecting infection should seek medical advice and refrain from self-medication, she said, while pointing out that there was currently no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV.
Supportive care such as pain relief medication and oxygen therapy was being provided to those affected, Dr. Padmavathi said, adding the government hospitals were geared up to offer appropriate treatment to children, the elderly, and individuals severely impacted by the virus.
Published – January 05, 2025 08:17 pm IST