HMPV Is Just Another Annual Virus, There's No Need To Worry

ever, no casualties have been reported anywhere in Karnataka linked to this issue.

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the HMPV scare, Asima Banu, Professor and HoD of the Microbiology Department and Principal of Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute (BMCRI), and Nodal Trauma Care Centre assuring message: absolutely no reason for concern. In an interaction with the Express editorial team, she shared her views on multiple aspects of healthcare in the state, why people choose private hospitals and what needs to be done to strengthen the healthcare system.

Tell us about the human metapneumovirus and how dangerous it is.

Every year, we have outbreaks in the form of respiratory viruses. HMPV is one of the common viruses. It is a common seasonal illness. There is nothing to worry about. The COVID-19 problem is different because of its severity. The HMPV we are discussing right now in India, according to the genomic sequencing we did, is not the same as the one found in China.

It is just another viral infection that is always there. It happens every year. We saw the avian influenza virus from 2009. Since then, there have been several bouts of infection, but we don't bother about them.

Should we continue to wear masks again?

I would recommend masking if you have influenza A/B or if you are visiting a healthcare facility and have a cough and cold. It is better to wear a mask to prevent the spread to others.

How is HMPV different from other viruses in causing kids to be hospitalized?

It causes a severe cough, but a prolonged cough, often persisting for an extended period. Children, particularly, are experiencing prolonged illness, which requires testing. Regarding the cases reported at our hospital, I am unsure how many have been admitted. How many children have been admitted?

What advice would you give to parents, especially since children are among the primary targets of this illness? How can they manage or prevent it at home?