HMPV Virus: If you want to protect yourself from HMPV virus, then immediately include these 5 things in your diet, immunity will become strong, danger will be averted

Hardly anyone has forgotten the havoc of Corona, this virus originating from China had wreaked havoc all over the world. Now once again the dangerous HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) virus has spread in China. Thousands of people in China have come under its grip. HMPV is a type of respiratory virus. Which was first found in the European country Netherlands in 2001. It is a member of the Paramyxoviridae family and affects the respiratory system. This virus can cause mild to severe respiratory infections in children, adults and the elderly.

This virus spreading from China has now knocked on the doorstep of India. HMPV has been confirmed in a 3 month and an 8 month old child in Bangalore. HMPV has also been confirmed in a 5 month old newborn in West Bengal. Union Health Minister JP Nadda said that 'this is not a new virus. It is more effective during winter and rainy season. The government is being cautious about the case coming from China, it is also keeping an eye on the situation of the virus in neighboring countries.'

How does HMPV spread?

HMPV affects people in many ways. This virus spreads through contact, infected surfaces and through air.

By contact: The virus spreads by coming in contact with infected people. For example, the virus spreads by sneezing, coughing or shaking hands.

From infected surfaces: If a person touches a surface infected with the virus and then touches his mouth, nose, or eyes, he may get HMPV infection.

Through air: The virus can spread through air due to the cough or sneeze of infected people.

Symptoms of HMPV
HMPV is a respiratory virus. It has symptoms like Covid-19. The infected person feels cold. Its symptoms are similar to the common cold, but it can cause serious infections in people with weak immunity.

Cough
Runny or blocked nose
Fever
Sore throat
Difficulty breathing
Fatigue
Prevention of HMPV
Cleanliness
Wash hands frequently, especially before eating and after coming from outside.

Use soap and water to wash hands or apply alcohol-based hand sanitizer
Keep distance from the infected person
Wash hands frequently, especially before eating and after coming from outside.
Use soap and water or apply alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Keep distance from the infected person
Avoid close contact with a sick person to prevent the spread of the virus.
Wear a mask in public places.
Boosting immunity
Eat a balanced diet, which should be rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
Get regular exercise and adequate sleep.
Vaccination
There is no specific vaccine available for HMPV yet, but vaccination against other respiratory viruses (such as the flu vaccine) can strengthen the immune system.

Consult a doctor
If symptoms are severe, such as difficulty in breathing, you should contact a doctor immediately.
Treatment of HMPV
There is no specific antiviral drug for HMPV. Treatment is usually done to manage symptoms.

Who is more at risk from HMPV?

Young children (less than 5 years)
Elderly (above 65 years)
Patients with heart or lung diseases
People with weak immunity
By taking precautions, the risk of HMPV infection can be reduced.
HMPV and COVID-19
Both COVID-19 infection and HMPV cause respiratory diseases. The similarity is that both viruses cause mild to severe respiratory illness to the person. Symptoms of cough, fever and shortness of breath are seen when infected with either of them.

The difference is that the virus associated with COVID-19 causes a wider range of illnesses, including loss of taste and smell and blood clots. While vaccines and antiviral treatments are available to prevent COVID-19, prevention measures against HMPV are limited and there is no antiviral drug available for it.