8 cases of HMPV virus similar to Corona which is wreaking havoc in China have been reported in India. Out of these, 6 cases have been observed in children under the age of one year ie infants. While in other two cases the age of the children is 7 years and 13 years.
The symptoms of this respiratory illness are similar to those of a common cold or flu. However, in some cases its symptoms can turn into bronchitis and pneumonia as well. Infants, young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are most at risk.
Seeing the increasing cases in China, the Indian government has become aware of this. The Union Health Ministry has issued guidelines to the states after reviewing the HMPV virus. They have been asked to increase surveillance on influenza and respiratory diseases.
So, today' Health water In ' we will know how much children are at risk due to HMPV virus. You will also know that-
- What symptoms should be observed in children?
- Can the HMPV virus be fatal?
- What precautions should parents take?
Expert:
- Dr. R.D. Srivastava, Principal Consultant, Paediatrics, Neonatology, Delhi
- Dr. Ankit Bansal, Consultant, Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Delhi
Newborns are at greater risk
Neonatologist and Pediatrician Dr. R. D. Srivastava says that if we look at the statistics around the world, most of the cases of HMPV virus are seen in children between 4 and 6 months. Even in India most of the cases have been observed in children under 1 year of age.
Cases are also being reported in adults in China, but a weakened immune system is the biggest factor.
Don't ignore flu-like symptoms in children
When infected with the HMPV virus, typical viral-like symptoms are observed. So, if little children have cold and fever, don't ignore it. Do not forget to consult a doctor. If children have wheezing sounds, it may be a sign of HMPV infection. Apart from this, see in the graphic how other symptoms can appear:
Don't panic
Consultant in Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease Dr. Until it is clear that the HMPV virus has mutated and its new mutation is dangerous, there is no need to panic about this virus, says Ankit Bansal. The Government of India has also clarified in its review meeting that HMPV is not a new virus. It has existed for many years in India and other countries. So far, this has not led to any very life-threatening situations.
However, after media reports coming out of China, many experts speculate that a new mutant of HMPV is infecting people there. It is more dangerous and contagious than ever. Despite this, India has no reason to fear it yet.
As the cold increases, respiratory diseases increase According to a study published in the 'Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology', more cases of respiratory infections are reported during the cold season as compared to other seasons. So, don't be alarmed by the common flu-like symptoms of HMPV. However, it should not be ignored. So, definitely consult a doctor once. It would be better to try to prevent this.
There is no cure for the disease, prevention is the main mantra No antibiotic or antiviral drug has yet been developed to fight the HMPV virus. No vaccine has been developed for this. In such a situation, the best way to deal with this virus is prevention. If there is a small child in the house, special care should be taken.
Like the corona virus, the HMPV virus is also spread through contact with an infected person. It is also spread by shaking hands with an infected person or touching anything infected with the virus. Therefore, as with Corona, hygiene and frequent hand washing are key measures to prevent HMPV. See graphic.
Some common questions and answers related to the HMPV virus
Question: Can the HMPV virus be fatal to children?
Answer: Yes, the HMPV virus can be fatal. However, the truth is that this happens in very few cases. HMPV virus causes death in less than 1% of cases worldwide. So no need to panic.
Question: Are all children facing serious problems due to HMPV virus?
Answer: No, it isn't. The immune system of young children is not fully developed. Hence, more cases of infection are being reported among them. While complications only occur in children whose lungs are already weak. Apart from this, other infected children are showing common cold-like symptoms.
Question: Is it necessary to give oxygen therapy to infected children?
Answer: No, only children with pneumonia due to HMPV infection need oxygen therapy. However, there is no cause for concern in India at present. Children whose immune systems are very weak need extra care.
Question: Who else should be more careful than small children?
Answer: Children under one year of age and the elderly need to be most cautious about the HMPV virus. In fact, the immune system of young children is not fully developed and the immune system of the elderly is weakening. Therefore, they are at increased risk of HMPV virus infection.
Image Credit: (Divya-Bhaskar): Images/graphics belong to (Divya-Bhaskar).
