Wednesday, 08 January 2025 | PNS | DEHRADUN
Doctors have advised that individuals must adhere to the appropriate sanitation practices to protect themselves from the Human Metapneumo Virus (HMPV). This recommendation was issued in light of a recent alert from the Health department, which provided guidelines and preventive measures for the virus throughout the state. Notably, there have been no reported cases of HMPV in the State yet. However, seven cases have emerged in India so far. Due to this, there has been a noticeable level of concern among the public. In response to this situation, doctors have emphasised that prevention is preferable to treatment for safeguarding against HMPV.
The medical superintendent of Deen Dayal Upadhyay District Hospital Dr VS Chauhan said that this virus bears similarities to Covid-19. Individuals should practice the necessary precautions rather than succumbing to panic.
He stated that the HMPV virus, which is comparable to Covid-19, also affects individuals by causing respiratory issues. Those infected with the HMPV virus may experience symptoms such as cough, sneezing, runny nose, fever and in severe cases, pneumonia. This virus is more prevalent among elderly individuals, children and those with underlying health conditions such as diabetes and asthma. Consequently, it is recommended that these individuals adhere to essential precautions. He further emphasised that to prevent this virus, individuals should follow necessary guidelines, including wearing face masks, maintaining social distance, washing hands upon returning home, using their elbow to sneeze and consuming warm water. He also stressed that there is no need for panic, as recovery typically occurs within four to five days when precautions are taken and a nutritious diet is maintained.
Further, senior physician at the district hospital Dr Vijay Singh Panwar said that elderly individuals, children and those suffering from other health conditions are more vulnerable to the HMPV virus. This virus presents symptoms similar to those of covid-19, necessitating comparable precautions. The symptoms associated with HMPV include cough, cold, throat infections, fever and respiratory issues. To mitigate the risk of transmission, individuals are advised to adhere to sanitation practices and maintain physical distancing. It is recommended that people wear face masks, wash their hands regularly, use handkerchiefs and keep a distance of at least 1.5 metres from others. Further, it is advisable to refrain from going outside unless necessary and if one must do so, wearing a face mask is essential. A nutritious diet is also important in combating HMPV, he emphasised.
