Bhopal: AIIMS Bhopal has issued guidelines concerning the rise of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in India, emphasizing preventative measures and public awareness, according to a press release here on Wednesday.
The guidelines address the virus’s transmission, symptoms, and prevention, particularly for vulnerable populations like children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.
It highlights the importance of public awareness and preventative measures in controlling the spread of HMPV. This respiratory virus, first identified in 2001, belongs to the Pneumoviridae family. It primarily affects the respiratory tract and poses a greater risk to vulnerable groups.
“Public awareness is crucial, and we encourage everyone to follow safety guidelines to protect themselves and their loved ones,” said AIIMS Bhopal director, Dr Ajai Singh.
The institute offers advanced diagnostic testing, including RT-PCR, in its department of microbiology. It has general and isolation beds for managing HMPV patients and fully equipped ICU beds with ventilators for critical cases.
The institution further advises ensuring that flu and pneumonia vaccinations are up-to-date. These preventative measures aim to protect individuals and the community from HMPV infection. Currently there is no vaccine primarily for HMPV.
As of January 6, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) had detected two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka. Both cases were identified through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens, as part of ICMR’s ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses.
