Another case of HMPV was reported from Ahmedabad on Friday, taking the state tally to four HMPV positive cases. This is third HMPV case from Ahmedabad.

The patient was identified as a nine-month-old infant, who was earlier admitted to Viha Children’s Hospital, and now has been shifted to Childhood Hospital.

On Thursday, a second case of HMPV was reported from Ahmedabad, where an 80-year-old man from Vastrapur tested positive. He was admitted to Sterling Hospital in Memnagar. 

With this, three HMPV cases have been reported from Ahmedabad, and one from Prantij, taking the HMPV case tally in Gujarat to four.

According to the advisory issued by the Gujarat government, the Human Metapneumonia Virus (HMPV), a respiratory virus, is more prevalent in winter, especially in young children and the elderly. The symptoms include common cold and flu among others.

Meanwhile, the Health and Family Welfare Department has appealed to the citizens to follow the rules regarding what to do and what not to do to protect themselves from respiratory infectious diseases.

The guidelines, released by the state, stated as follows –

Things to know about Metapneumovirus (HMPV)

- Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus similar to other respiratory viruses.

- This virus has been identified since 2001.

- This virus is especially common in young children and the elderly during the winter season and its symptoms include common cold and flu.

What to do if you have symptoms of metanephrine (HMPV)?

- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or a handkerchief when coughing or sneezing.

- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or use a sanitiser.

- Stay away from crowded places and maintain at least one arm’s distance from people who are sick with flu.

- Avoid going to public places if you have a fever, cough or sneeze.

- Drink plenty of water and eat nutritious food.

- Get enough sleep to strengthen your immune system.

- Stay in an environment with proper ventilation to prevent the spread of diseases.

- If you have respiratory symptoms, stay home, limit contact with others and immediately contact the nearest government hospital.

Don'ts in case of Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection

- Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth unless necessary.

- The infected person should ensure that personal items such as towels, handkerchiefs or other utensils do not come into contact with or be used by another person.

- Avoid self-medication, contact a health worker if symptoms worsen.