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Reports about the outbreak of an epidemic caused by HMPV (human metapneumovirus) and the detection of India’s first cases – in Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, and Chennai– may have revived memories of Covid. China has seen a large number of respiratory diseases caused by HMPV and similar viruses.
Photos and videos of people in China wearing masks in hospitals and other places are being circulated on social media. Considering the extent of impact Covid had, people would naturally be wary of anything that looks like an epidemic.
Understandably, the spurt in such cases had given rise to discussions about the virus in other parts of the world, including India. Experts have maintained that there is no need for panic over the virus. It is not a new virus; it was first identified in 2001 and many of its characteristics are known. The virus infects children, especially those aged under five years, but also affects those with deficient immunity and the elderly.
The Union Health Ministry has said that the cases were detected by the ICMR through routine surveillance as part of efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses. It has noticed no surge in respiratory diseases in the country and has said it is equipped to handle the situation.
Health authorities have said that respiratory and seasonal influenza cases are regularly monitored in the country and they are in touch with international agencies on the HMPV situation. The claim that the cases detected in the country are the first has been disputed, because the virus is an existing one.
The children who have been infected and their families have no history of foreign travel. Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has said, “it is yet to be decided if this is a serious public health concern, and if PCR tests are required’’.
Experts are of the view that HMPV is like any other respiratory virus that causes common cold, and it could cause flu-like symptoms in the young and the very old. Such infections are common in winter.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has not yet issued a statement or advisory on the current infections. The Chinese government has tried to reassure the world of its commitment to protect the health of its citizens and foreigners who travel to that country, but the world has a trust deficit with China on the matter.
The Covid experience has taught the world to not let the guard down. There is the need to expand testing facilities in India, and wearing masks and washing hands is good – with or without Covid, HMPV, or any other virus.