AIIMS Bhopal has issued detailed guidelines for public awareness and safety regarding the increasing prevalence of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in India. The institution emphasizes the importance of preventive measures and public health awareness in controlling the spread of this respiratory virus. HMPV, first identified in 2001, belongs to the Pneumoviridae family. It primarily affects the respiratory tract and poses a higher risk to young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Prof. (Dr.) Ajai Singh, Executive Director of AIIMS Bhopal, said, "AIIMS Bhopal stands fully prepared to handle any outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus or similar respiratory illnesses. Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals, advanced diagnostic laboratories, and state-of-the-art facilities ensure we can respond swiftly and effectively. Public awareness is crucial, and we encourage everyone to follow safety guidelines to protect themselves and their loved ones." AIIMS Bhopal offers robust respiratory virus testing facilities, including RT-PCR, processed in the advanced Department of Microbiology for accurate and timely diagnosis. The hospital is equipped with adequate general and isolation beds for managing patients with HMPV and fully equipped ICU beds with life-support systems (ventilators) for critically ill patients. Prof. Singh further said, "AIIMS Bhopal is committed to safeguard public health and stands ready to manage any medical emergency."
The virus spreads mainly through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Close contact with infected individuals or touching contaminated surfaces and subsequently touching one's nose, mouth, or eyes can lead to infection. Common symptoms include fever, runny nose and congestion, sore throat, cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, and fatigue. In rare cases, it can cause pneumonia or bronchiolitis. While most healthy individuals recover without complications, high-risk groups such as infants, older adults, and those with chronic conditions like asthma or heart disease may face severe health outcomes.
To protect against HMPV, the public is advised to practice hand hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, wear masks in crowded places, cover the mouth and nose with an elbow or tissue when coughing or sneezing, clean frequently touched surfaces regularly, avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals, and ensure flu and pneumonia vaccinations are up to date.
