Assam: Guwahati Reports First Case of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: Guwahati has confirmed its first case of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) at a private hospital.

The patient, a 75-year-old woman, is currently undergoing treatment in Medicine Unit 2 of the hospital and is reported to be stable, recovering without the need for additional respiratory support.

However, her 80-year-old husband, who is exhibiting similar symptoms, requires intermittent oxygen support. His sample is being tested for viral markers, and the results are awaited. This incident comes on the heels of a 10-month-old infant from Lakhimpur being diagnosed with HMPV and treated at Assam Medical College and Hospital (AMCH) in Dibrugarh.

Dr. Abhijit Sarma, Superintendent of Gauhati Medical College Hospital (GMCH), explained that the virus causes flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, runny nose, respiratory tract infections, and headache, primarily affecting children under five years of age.

While Dr. Sarma reassured that there is no immediate cause for alarm, he recommended seeking medical advice, wearing masks, and avoiding large gatherings, particularly for children and the elderly. He also highlighted that although precautions similar to those taken during the COVID-19 pandemic should be followed, HMPV is not as severe as COVID-19.

Also Read: Second Case of HMPV Reported in Puducherry, India’s Total Reaches 18

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