PANAJI
Reports of an HMPV outbreak which causes flu-like symptoms in China revived memories of the Coronavirus pandemic which also similarly originated in that country's busy Wuhan city but doctors are unanimous that there is no reason to be alarmed.
HMPV (Human Metapneumo Virus) is a single stranded 'RNA Virus' with an IP incubation period of 3-6 days and clinical features which are usually usually mild fever, running nose, sore throat and cough, according to Dr RG Wiseman Pinto, former professor and pathology HoD at the Goa Medical College.
"In severe cases there may be shortness of breath, difficulty in breathing, upper respiratory tract and lower respiratory tract involvement and pneumonia," Dr Wiseman Pinto said, adding that these symptoms are usually seen in children and infants.
It may manifest in the elderly and in individuals with low immune systems and is common in winter and early spring, he said, adding that it could be severe in patients with Asthma and COPD.
There is no vaccine or any specific treatment at the moment for HMPV infection and cases may be dealt with 'symptomatic treatment', he said adding that communication of the virus is by direct or close contact with respiratory secretions of infected persons or by contact with objects and surfaces contaminated by the secretions.
Covering the mouth and nose while coughing and sneezing with liberal use of tissue paper which needs to be disposed off, Dr Pinto said while advocating washing of hands.
