The Karnataka government has released an advisory addressing the potential threat posed by the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), following its spread in China. The Department of Health and Family Welfare emphasized that no cases have been reported in the state thus far, and there is no need for panic.

The Health Department assured the public that the situation is being closely monitored in coordination with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. According to a recent statement by the central government, HMPV is similar to other respiratory viruses causing common cold and flu-like symptoms, particularly affecting children and older adults during the winter.

Advisory Highlights:

Dos:

  1. Cover your mouth and nose with a handkerchief or tissue while coughing or sneezing.
  2. Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based sanitizers.
  3. Avoid crowded areas and public spaces if experiencing fever, cough, or sneezing.
  4. Ensure adequate ventilation in indoor settings.
  5. Stay hydrated and consume nutritious food.

Don’ts:

  1. Avoid reusing tissues or handkerchiefs.
  2. Refrain from close contact with sick individuals or sharing towels and linens.
  3. Avoid frequent touching of the face, especially the eyes, nose, and mouth.
  4. Do not spit in public places.
  5. Avoid self-medication without consulting a physician.

The advisory also noted that an analysis of respiratory infections, including common cold, influenza-like illnesses (ILI), and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI), showed no significant increase in cases in Karnataka during December 2024 compared to the previous year.

Citizens are encouraged to adopt these preventive measures to protect themselves and limit the spread of infections.