From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: HMPV and its causes
Why in the News?
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has recently become a topic of widespread discussion in India, fueled by sensational media reports. These reports claim the emergence of a “new dangerous virus” from China, leading to unnecessary public panic and misinformation.
What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?
- Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that primarily causes mild to moderate respiratory infections.
- It belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family, the same group of viruses that includes respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and parainfluenza.
- HMPV was first identified in 2001 and has been circulating globally for decades.
- Most infections are mild and self-limiting, but HMPV can cause severe illness in vulnerable groups such as:
- Elderly individuals.
- Young children (especially under five years).
- Immunocompromised individuals or those with chronic illnesses.
- Transmission:
- Spread primarily through respiratory droplets, direct contact with contaminated surfaces, or close contact with infected individuals.
- Diagnosis:
- Advanced PCR-based respiratory panels can detect HMPV. However, these tests are not routinely performed unless required in vulnerable patients or during hospital outbreaks.
Symptoms and Treatment for HMPV:
- HMPV symptoms overlap with those of other respiratory viruses like influenza and RSV.
- Mild Symptoms: Runny nose; Sore throat; Cough; Fever; Fatigue.
- Severe Symptoms (in vulnerable populations): Bronchitis; Wheezing; Pneumonia; Difficulty breathing; Hypoxia in extreme cases.
- No Specific Antiviral or Vaccine: Unlike flu and RSV, there is no targeted antiviral therapy or vaccine for HMPV.
- Supportive Care: Rest and hydration; Over-the-counter medications to manage fever and pain (e.g., acetaminophen or ibuprofen).
- For Severe Cases: Hospitalization may be required for oxygen therapy, nebulization, or other supportive measures.
Present Scenario- Global and National:
- HMPV is one of the leading causes of respiratory infections worldwide, following influenza and RSV.
- Studies indicate HMPV accounts for 5-10% of respiratory infections in children and vulnerable adults annually.
- The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recently reported two HMPV cases in Karnataka involving babies with a history of bronchopneumonia.
- These are the first cases identified using PCR diagnostic tools after a surge in HMPV cases in China.
PYQ:[2022] In the context of vaccines manufactured to prevent COVID-19 pandemic, consider the following statements: 1. The Serum Institute of India produced COVID-19 vaccine named Covishield using mRNA platform. 2. Sputnik V vaccine is manufactured using a vector-based platform. 3. COVAXIN is an inactivated pathogen-based vaccine. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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