Not a new virus, HMPV detection has improved due to heightened surveillance, better diagnostics: CIDS
The HinduReiterating that Human Metapneumovirus is not a new virus and there was no cause for alarm, the Clinical Infectious Diseases Society has stated that advancements in diagnostic technologies have improved the detection of HMPV in recent years. Elaborating on the population at risk, CIDS said that HMPV is the second most common cause of respiratory tract infections in children after RSV. Advancements in diagnostic technologies, particularly multiple PCR and film array panels for respiratory viruses, have improved the detection of HMPV in recent years. CIDS outlined preventive measures for reducing transmission of HMPV and other respiratory viruses: practising cough etiquette, washing hands frequently with soap and water, wearing masks in crowded or high-risk settings particularly during respiratory virus seasons. Healthcare providers should consider HMPV in the differential diagnosis of respiratory illness, especially in high-risk populations and use available diagnostic tools and management measures appropriately.