Bangladesh Health Watch urges vigilance amid HMPV virus outbreak

Bangladesh Health Watch (BHW), as a civil society platform expresses deep concern over the recent outbreak of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV).

Bangladesh Health Watch urges citizens to take preventive measures, including; washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, covering mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing; staying away from individuals showing symptoms of respiratory illness.

BHW also calls on health authorities to strengthen surveillance, enhance diagnostic capacity, and ensure the availability of medical resources before the virus enters Bangladesh, reads a press release. 

Bangladesh Health Watch said they remain committed to raising awareness about public health threats. We urge everyone to stay informed, act responsibly, and consult healthcare professionals if they suspect an infection.

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV), which is reportedly on the rise in China, has now started to spread in the UK, and recently in our neighboring country India.

Earlier, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) confirmed two Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in Karnataka. A three-month-old girl and an eight-month-old boy, both with bronchopneumonia, tested positive at Baptist Hospital in Bengaluru.

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that typically causes mild to moderate flu-like symptoms. It is more common during winter and early spring and spreads through direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces.

Symptoms often include cough, nasal congestion, sore throat, and fever. However, severe cases may lead to wheezing, breathing difficulties, hoarseness, or pneumonia.

HMPV can cause significant respiratory complications in vulnerable groups, such as infants under one year old, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.