PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Jan 7: The world was barely able to recover from the Corona pandemic when another virus from China has raised global concerns.
The new virus- Human Meta Pneumo Virus (HMPV)- has started spreading in India with the first case reported in Bengaluru.
HMPV cases have been also reported in Gujarat and Mumbai.
Health authorities sounded an alert in Jharkhand. East Singhbhum Civil Surgeon’s office also alerted the hospitals and issued guidelines to check the spread of the deadly virus.
Threat of HMPV Virus
An alert has been issued for Human Meta Pneumo Virus (HMPV) in many districts of Jharkhand. District Civil Surgeon Dr. Sahir Pal has instructed all hospitals to immediately inform the District Surveillance Department about any suspected patient due to the possibility of the spread of this virus.
The District Surveillance Department has advised the MGM Hospital, Tata Main Hospital, Sadar Hospital, Mercy Hospital, Tata Motors Hospital, and Tinplate Hospital to be especially vigilant.
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Symptoms and Prevention of the Virus
Symptoms of HMPV virus include cold, cough, fever and difficulty in breathing. There is no vaccination available for this virus, so prevention is its only cure.
Civil Surgeon Dr. Sahir Pal said that currently some cases have been reported in Karnataka, Gujarat and Maharashtra due to which vigilance has been increased in the state.
Preventive Measures
- Pay special attention to hand hygiene.
- Use a mask and cover your nose and mouth while coughing or sneezing.
- Eat nutritious food and drink enough water.
- Get enough sleep.
- Contact a doctor immediately if you notice symptoms of HMPV.
What Not To Do
- Do not go to crowded places unnecessarily.
- Avoid unnecessary contact in case of cold, cough, flu and fever.
- Avoid shaking hands with people.
- Avoid spitting in open places.
- Do not touch eyes, nose and mouth repeatedly.
- Do not take medicines without doctor’s advice.
The threat of the HMPV virus is increasing and it requires utmost caution. The state health department has started its preparations, but everyone needs to be vigilant to prevent its spread.
Taking precautions and following proper measures is the most effective way to avoid the virus.