HMPV outbreak in India: Here are 10 things to keep yourself safe from the spreading infection 

Following the detection of two Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in the state, the Karnataka government on January 6 urged people not to panic as the virus is not as transmissible as Covid-19. 

The resurgence of the new outbreak has triggered concerns of Covid-19 pandemic among the masses wild speculations on the new virus, which coincidentally spiked similar to the Covid outbreak during the winter months of 2019-20. 

Emphasising that the respiratory virus primarily affects children, causing infections similar to the common cold, the Directorate of Medical Education (DME), Karnataka, said in a release that hospitals have been instructed to report influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) cases. 

The virus spreads through respiratory droplets, close personal contact, and touching surfaces contaminated with the virus followed by touching the mouth, nose or eyes. 

Here are the steps to keep infection at bay 

• To prevent escalation of the spread of the virus, cover your mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, wash hands frequently with soap 
• Wear a mask while in public places or at workplace 
• Avoid public places if you are symptomatic, and close contact with sick persons  
• Do not to reuse tissue papers or handkerchiefs, share towels and linen  
• Avoid spitting in public places. 
• Do not touch your mouth, nose or eyes before sanitising your hands or before washing them. 
• Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser. 
• Practice self-isolation if you are sick 
• Individuals with preexisting lung diseases should be extra cautious and must follow all precautions 
• Seek medical assistance immediately if you have severe cough, wheezing and shortness of breath 

The Union health ministry has emphasised that HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India, and cases of respiratory illnesses associated with it have been reported in various countries 

A two-month-old boy admitted to a private hospital in Ahmedabad Gujarat has been detected with HMPV infection, while two cases have been detected in Karnataka. 

There is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV. Management focuses on alleviating symptoms with supportive care like rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications for pain, fever, and congestion. Severe cases might require hospitalisation for oxygen therapy or IV fluids. 

Mild cases of human HMPV usually last a few days to a week. In severe cases, it will probably take longer to feel better. However, lingering symptoms, like a cough, may take longer to go away.