HMPV Virus in Bihar: Arrangements will be made on the lines of Corona to defeat the HMPV virus spread in China in Bihar. The Health Department has started preparations for this. Following the guidelines of the Central Government, the Health Department has instructed the District Magistrates of all the districts, Principals and Superintendents of Medical College Hospitals, Civil Surgeons to make arrangements on the lines of Corona to prevent this virus.

No specific antiviral or vaccine is available yet

According to the Health Department, this is a virus associated with the respiratory system. No specific anti-viral or vaccine is available so far to prevent its infection. The department has directed that all health institutions should ensure surveillance of influenza-like illness and severe acute respiratory pneumonia (SARI) and report it daily on the IHIP portal.

Availability of medicines, kits, ventilators, oxygen, masks etc. related to COVID-19 should be ensured. All hospitals have been asked to keep an eye on its trend and in case of its increase, to closely monitor infection control activities. Instructions have also been given to send samples of seriously admitted cases in the hospital to the national lab for testing so that HMPV can be confirmed in the lab.

What are the symptoms of HMPV virus?

According to the department, its symptoms include cough, fever, nasal infection, breathing problems and, in severe cases, bronchitis and pneumonia. HMPV spreads from one person to another by coughing or sneezing. It can also spread by touching an infected person and by coming in contact of infected objects with the mouth, eyes or nose.

The main method for protection against HMPV is being told to be the same as for corona. It is suggested to take precautions especially for small children, people above 60 years of age and people with weak immunity.