Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory disease that is now on the rise in India, cannot be treated with antibiotics, Dr. Randeep Guleria, a former director of AIIMS, stressed on Tuesday.
Rather, he advised staying hydrated, eating a healthy diet, and following infection control procedures. The chairman of Medanta Gurugram's Institute of Internal Medicine, Respiratory, and Sleep Medicine, Dr. Guleria, told IANS that HMPV is not a novel virus and usually only produces minor symptoms. "HMPV has been around for a while. It usually results in moderate sickness, but in newborns, young children, the elderly, or people with underlying medical issues, it can cause serious consequences including pneumonia. Breathing issues in these circumstances may necessitate hospitalization," Dr. Guleria noted.
Symptomatic Treatment Key
Dr. Guleria emphasized that HMPV typically resolves on its own and only needs symptomatic treatment. He suggested eating a balanced meal, being well-hydrated, and taking fever medicine. "Managing symptoms is a part of treatment. Paracetamol can be used to treat fever and body pains, while anti-allergic drugs can aid with cold and cough symptoms. Since this is a viral illness, no particular antiviral medication or antibiotic is required," he stated.
Rising Cases and Transmission
There have been seven HMPV instances documented so far, two in Karnataka, one in Gujarat, and two in tamil Nadu. All of the cases have involved children between the ages of three months and thirteen. Dr. Guleria pointed out that anyone of any age can contract the virus, which spreads by respiratory droplets similar to influenza.
Prevention Measures
Dr. Guleria suggested cough etiquette, hand cleanliness, and avoiding crowded areas as ways to stop the spread of HMPV. "Infection control is crucial. Regular handwashing and covering your mouth while coughing or sneezing can significantly reduce transmission," he added. The pulmonologist reiterated that public awareness and symptomatic management are key to addressing HMPV while avoiding unnecessary use of antibiotics.
Rather, he advised staying hydrated, eating a healthy diet, and following infection control procedures. The chairman of Medanta Gurugram's Institute of Internal Medicine, Respiratory, and Sleep Medicine, Dr. Guleria, told IANS that HMPV is not a novel virus and usually only produces minor symptoms. "HMPV has been around for a while. It usually results in moderate sickness, but in newborns, young children, the elderly, or people with underlying medical issues, it can cause serious consequences including pneumonia. Breathing issues in these circumstances may necessitate hospitalization," Dr. Guleria noted.
Symptomatic Treatment Key
Dr. Guleria emphasized that HMPV typically resolves on its own and only needs symptomatic treatment. He suggested eating a balanced meal, being well-hydrated, and taking fever medicine. "Managing symptoms is a part of treatment. Paracetamol can be used to treat fever and body pains, while anti-allergic drugs can aid with cold and cough symptoms. Since this is a viral illness, no particular antiviral medication or antibiotic is required," he stated.
Rising Cases and Transmission
There have been seven HMPV instances documented so far, two in Karnataka, one in Gujarat, and two in tamil Nadu. All of the cases have involved children between the ages of three months and thirteen. Dr. Guleria pointed out that anyone of any age can contract the virus, which spreads by respiratory droplets similar to influenza.
Prevention Measures
Dr. Guleria suggested cough etiquette, hand cleanliness, and avoiding crowded areas as ways to stop the spread of HMPV. "Infection control is crucial. Regular handwashing and covering your mouth while coughing or sneezing can significantly reduce transmission," he added. The pulmonologist reiterated that public awareness and symptomatic management are key to addressing HMPV while avoiding unnecessary use of antibiotics.
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