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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O 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 panic. In an interaction with the Express editorial team, she shared her views on multiple aspects of healthcare in the state 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 multiple outbreaks in the state. It is a respiratory virus like the common viruses and common seasonal influenza. There is nothing to worry about. The HMPV we are talking about right now in Karnataka is not the same as the genomic sequence found in China. It is just another viral infection that is always there. It is seen every year. We saw the first avian metapneumovirus in 2001. Since then, there have been several bouts of infection, but we don't bother about it.

Should we continue to wear masks again?

I would recommend masking if you have influenza A/B or are visiting a health centre 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 mild fever, often persisting for a prolonged period. Children, particularly, are experiencing prolonged illness, which requires testing. Regarding the cases reported at our hospital, I am unsure how many were 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?