Virologists urge not to panic over HMPV

While the devastating impact of the coronavirus pandemic is still fresh in memory, global health experts have warned of potential future pandemics and outbreaks of infectious diseases. 

Recently, concerns have emerged over the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), following reports of its outbreak in China, Japan, and cases in Malaysia and India. 

However, experts in Bangladesh stress that this is not a new virus and its severity remains low.

No need for panic in Bangladesh

Bangladeshi medical experts have reassured the public, emphasizing that HMPV is an old disease and not a significant threat.

Dr Ahmed Nowsher Alam said, “There is no need to be overly alarmed about this virus. Cases of HMPV have been identified in Bangladesh before, and it does not pose a major threat. Symptoms resemble influenza or coronavirus, and the disease is treatable with conventional methods.”

Dr Tahmina Shirin, Director of IEDCR, echoed this sentiment, adding that HMPV is not a new virus in Bangladesh. “There is no reason to panic,” she said.

Dr Farhad Hossain, Director of the Disease Control Division of DGHS, confirmed that Bangladesh has identified HMPV cases since 2017. “As of this year, no cases have been reported. WHO and Chinese authorities have clarified that no emergency has been declared regarding HMPV.”

HMPV outbreaks in China, Japan, and India

Social media videos from China depict crowded hospitals reminiscent of the early coronavirus days. Similar scenes are reported in Japan, although no official alerts have been issued by the World Health Organization (WHO) or affected governments.

International reports suggest that children and the elderly, particularly those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, are most vulnerable. However, China has assured the global community that HMPV is a seasonal winter infection.

In India, two children in Bengaluru, aged three months and eight months, were diagnosed with HMPV on January 6. 

Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said that HMPV has been observed in India before and there is no cause for alarm.

Prevention and treatment

Though first identified two decades ago, there is no vaccine for HMPV. Doctors advise following basic hygiene practices similar to those used against COVID-19:

Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Avoid touching the face with unclean hands.

Maintain a safe distance from infected individuals.

While awareness is important, health authorities urge the public not to panic and to rely on preventive measures to stay safe.