Another virus like Corona is spreading in China. This virus, known as Human Metapneumovirus, is currently increasing rapidly in India. HMPV virus has been reported in states like Karnataka, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu. It can be said that this is reminiscent of the early days of COVID-19. Union Health Minister JP Natta said, “There is nothing to worry about.”
HMPV in India
“The government is committed to tackling the rise in respiratory diseases by emphasizing strong health protection measures,” he assured. HMPV is a globally recognized respiratory virus. It affects people of all ages. Although it has been circulating for years, recent reports from China have brought the virus into the spotlight.
covid
Its symptoms, which often resemble those of COVID-19, have raised public concern. However, major health organizations including the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) have stressed that HMPV is not new to India and hence there is no need for alarm. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and issuing guidelines to reduce the spread.
HMPV outbreak in India
Amid the growing number of vulnerabilities, #lockdown is trending on social media platforms like X. A comparison is made between the hMPV situation and the COVID-19 outbreak in China. It highlights public concerns that the pandemic, which began in Wuhan in late 2019, could recur. India, which saw its first case of COVID-19 in January 2020, was badly hit by the pandemic.
Union Health Ministry
Despite assurances from experts that HMPV is manageable and not as serious as COVID-19, it has again created fear among people. Citizens have been advised to maintain basic hygiene practices such as frequent hand washing, wearing masks in crowded places and maintaining social distancing, especially during the winter months when respiratory diseases are more common. Doctors say that by taking timely precautions, the spread of HMPV can be prevented.