Chandigarh, January 7, 2025 (Punjab Khabarnama Bureau): The new disease, HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus), which originated in China, has raised concerns in India as well. On Monday, India was also affected by this virus, with five cases reported in just one day. Among these, two cases were reported from Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, while one case was reported from Gujarat. All of the affected individuals in India are children, with one being 2 months old and another 8 months old.
This new virus has reminded people of the memories of the COVID-19 pandemic. After news of the HMPV outbreak in China, lockdown became a trending topic on social media. People began comparing this virus to COVID-19, which had turned into a global pandemic.
Why was there a discussion about a lockdown?
COVID-19 cases were first reported in November 2019 in Wuhan, China, and quickly spread to other countries. The first case in India was reported in Kerala in January 2020. Soon after, the disease spread across the country, and the government had to announce a lockdown to control its spread.
In such a situation, people are worried that an increase in HMPV cases could lead to another global outbreak, which might force the government to impose a lockdown to prevent its spread.
However, Union Health Minister JP Nadda reassured the public that the government is closely monitoring the situation and there is no need for concern. Experts have also confirmed that this is not a situation like the coronavirus, so measures like lockdowns are not necessary to control it.
What is this virus?
HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) is a globally recognized respiratory disease-causing virus. Recently, news of its spread in China has attracted worldwide attention. It is a viral germ that causes respiratory issues in people of all age groups. Although the governments of Karnataka, Gujarat, and Maharashtra have reassured the public that there is no need to panic, the Delhi government has instructed all hospitals in the capital to be fully prepared to handle any potential increase in respiratory illnesses.
Precaution is Necessary for Children
Former ICMR scientist Dr. Raman Gangakhedkar stated that there is no need to be overly concerned about this virus in India. This virus has always been present in the country, but it was only recently identified. He mentioned that it is more commonly found during winter, but it does not cause death. Dr. Gangakhedkar told CNN-News 18, “There is no global study that reports deaths due to this virus. It is a common cold virus, and not just children, even adults are getting repeatedly infected with it.” However, he cautioned that children under five years old, or those exhibiting common cold symptoms, should not be sent to school as they may spread the infection. He added, “For safety, people with a common cold should ensure that if they have children under 5 years old, they follow COVID guidelines. If your child is under 5 and has a common cold, they should not go to school because they will spread the infection.”
No Need for Medication or Vaccine
Dr. Sanjeev Bagai, head of Nephron Clinic and Padma Shri awardee, told CNN-News 18 that there are no authorized treatments, antivirals, or vaccines for HMPV, but none of these are necessary. He explained that for the past two and a half decades, HMPV has been present worldwide and there is no need for specific medication or vaccines.
How to Protect Yourself from HMPV:
- Wear a mask.
- Stay in well-ventilated areas.
- Maintain cleanliness.
- Avoid contact with infected people.
Dr. Bagai emphasized, “Ensure children are well-nourished and hydrated. This is not a COVID-like situation. This virus particularly increases respiratory infections in children during the winter season.”
Summary: HMPV cases in India have surged, with 5 new patients reported in a day. Concerns are rising about the potential reimposition of a lockdown.