News: Several state governments have issued health advisories after detection of the first Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Bengaluru.
About HMPV
- It is a respiratory virus that causes upper respiratory infection and mild infections that are like common cold.
- Sometimes, it can also cause lower respiratory infections like pneumonia, asthma flare-ups or may deteriorate Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
- It was first identified in 2001 and belongs to the Pneumoviridae family along with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
- Transmission: Spreads through direct contact with infected person or from touching contaminated surfaces.
- Symptoms: Cough, fever, shortness of breath, runny nose etc.
- Risk Factors: Children under the age of 5 years, citizens above 65 years of age, people with weakened immune systems.
- Treatment: Currently, there are no vaccines or antiviral medications to treat HMPV.
