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General Studies 3 >> Science & Technology

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HUMAN META PNEUMOVIRUS (HMPV)

HUMAN METAPNEUMOVIRUS (HMPV)

 
 
 
1. Context
 
China’s diseases control authority said that it was piloting a monitoring system for pneumonia of unknown origin. The country was already witnessing an upward trend in overall infections as of mid-December, and is expecting to see more respiratory infections in the winter and spring
 
 
2. What is human metapneumovirus?
 
  • Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that typically causes mild infections resembling the common cold. Discovered by researchers in 2001, it is part of the Pneumoviridae family, which also includes respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), as well as the viruses responsible for measles and mumps.
  • HMPV can lead to infections in both the upper and lower respiratory tracts and is most commonly observed during the winter and early spring months. Children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of infection and potential complications.
  • The symptoms, which are similar to those of a common cold, include cough, nasal congestion or runny nose, sore throat, fever, and wheezing. The incubation period is estimated to be three to six days.
  • For most individuals, the illness resolves on its own within a few days with adequate rest and supportive care. However, in some cases, complications like bronchitis or pneumonia may develop, necessitating medical attention
 
3. Spreading and treatment
 
  • HMPV is transmitted through direct contact with an infected individual or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus. This includes exposure to respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes, physical interactions like handshakes or hugs with an infected person, or handling items such as doorknobs, phones, or keyboards that carry the virus, followed by touching the face, nose, eyes, or mouth.
  • Currently, there is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment available for HMPV. Most individuals manage symptoms with over-the-counter medications for fever and pain, possibly supplemented by a decongestant.
  • Antibiotics are ineffective against HMPV. However, the virus can be prevented by practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing with soap and water, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, refraining from touching the face, and wearing a mask to prevent spreading the virus if you suspect you are infected. Individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD should take extra precautions to reduce their risk of infection
4. India's response
 
Following reports from China, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), under the Union Health Ministry, is actively monitoring cases of respiratory and seasonal influenza across India and maintaining communication with international agencies. Confirmed cases of HMPV have been reported in two infants from Karnataka, one case in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, and two children in Chennai. In a video statement, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda emphasized that HMPV is not a newly discovered virus, explaining that it was first identified in 2001 and has been present worldwide for many years. He noted that the virus spreads through respiratory transmission and assured the public that the country’s health systems and surveillance networks are alert, emphasizing that there is no cause for concern
 
 
 
For Prelims: 
Avian influenza H5N2, Avian influenza H5N1, Bird Flu, Hemagglutinin (HA) and Neuraminidase (NA), influenza A viruses, Genomic surveillance, Pathogens, and Viruses.
 
For Mains:
1.Discuss the impact of the H5N2 Avian Influenza virus on public health. What measures can be implemented at national and international levels to mitigate the spread of avian influenza viruses and minimize their impact on both poultry production and human health?
 
 
 

Previous Year Questions

1. H1N1 virus is sometimes mentioned in the news with reference to which one of the following diseases? (UPSC 2015)

A. AIDS
B.  Bird flu
C.  Dengue
D.  Swine flu

Answer: D

2. Consider the following statements : (UPSC 2010)

1. Every individual in the population is an equally susceptible host for Swine Flu.

2. Antibiotics have no role in the primary treatment of Swine Flu.

3. To prevent the future spread of Swine Flu in the epidemic area, the swine (pigs) must all be culled.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only

B. 2 only

C. 2 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A

3. Which of the following statements is/are correct? (UPSC 2013)

1. Viruses lack enzymes necessary for the generation of energy.

2. Viruses can be cultured in any synthetic medium.

3. Viruses are transmitted from one organism to another by biological vectors only.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

A. 1 only

B. 2 and 3 only

C. 1 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A

 4. Which of the following statements is/are correct? Viruses can infect (UPSC 2016)

  1. Bacteria
  2. Fungi
  3. Plants

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only 
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Ans: (d)

 
Source: The Hindu

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