Children and Seniors with Cold & Cough Should Remain Indoors to Curb HMPV Transmission: Dr. Randeep Guleria

New Delhi, Jan 7 (NationPress) Children and elderly individuals with symptoms of cold and cough should stay at home to mitigate the transmission of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory illness that is currently on the rise in the country, according to former AIIMS Director Dr. Randeep Guleria on Tuesday.

In an interview with IANS, Guleria, who is the Chairman of the Institute of Internal Medicine, Respiratory and Sleep Medicine at Medanta Gurugram, emphasized that prevention is paramount.

“If a child experiences fever, cold, and cough, they should remain at home for a minimum of 5 to 7 days, ensuring they do not transmit the infection to others in school,” he advised.

He also urged schools to issue advisories to parents, recommending that sick children refrain from attending school to prevent spreading the virus to the elderly.

Currently, there have been seven reported cases of HMPV—two in Karnataka, one in Gujarat, and two in Tamil Nadu. All cases were found in young children aged between 3 months and 13 years.

Guleria stressed the importance of adhering to public health guidelines such as frequent handwashing and the use of masks, which can shield against other respiratory illnesses, including the flu.

“The lessons learned from Covid should be adhered to by everyone, especially at this time, as they not only protect against HMPV but also against Covid and other influenza-related viruses,” stated the expert.

“Practices aligned with Covid appropriate behavior, such as wearing masks, regular hand hygiene, and proper cough etiquette—like covering your cough with your arm or elbow if you lack tissues—are crucial in preventing the spread of infections. Avoid crowded areas as well,” the esteemed pulmonologist remarked to IANS.

Guleria clarified that the virus is not new and typically causes mild infections in young children and elderly individuals. He noted that the infection is self-limiting and should not be treated with antibiotics but rather with adequate hydration and nutrition.

Meanwhile, Union Minister JP Nadda, in a video message, affirmed that HMPV is not a new virus.

“First identified in 2001, it has been circulating worldwide for many years, primarily transmitted through the air via respiration. This virus can affect individuals of all ages, with increased transmission during the winter and early spring months,” remarked the Union Minister.

The Health Ministry, alongside the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Centre for Disease Control, is monitoring the situation closely in China and neighboring countries, Nadda assured.

“There is no cause for alarm. We are vigilantly observing the situation,” he concluded.