China’s Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has reached Uttar Pradesh, as a private lab has confirmed that a woman from the city has tested positive for the virus.
The 60-year-old woman, a resident of the Cantt area of Lucknow, was initially admitted to a private hospital before being transferred to a government hospital at 11 PM last night. The private lab’s report indicated a positive result, and her sample has been sent to KGMU for further testing. Sources revealed that she is currently in isolation in ward number 11 of the hospital.
With the emergence of HMPV in the country, the health department is on high alert. As of Wednesday, 11 cases have been reported nationwide. However, doctors advise that there is no need for panic. The virus typically spreads during the winter months and can cause symptoms such as cold, fever, cough, and chest tightness. To prevent infection, it is essential to stay hydrated, even in cold weather, and take precautions such as wearing masks in crowded places and maintaining distance from individuals showing flu-like symptoms.
HMPV belongs to the Pneumoviridae virus family and has been present in the environment for over 60 years, although it was first identified in 2001. The virus was initially discovered in children in the Netherlands and was first confirmed in India in 2003 by BJ Medical College and the National Institute of Virology in Pune.