HMPV: How to Keep Children Safe from HMPV: Doctors' Advice

How to Keep Children Safe from HMPV: Doctors' Advice

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common virus that can cause mild to severe illnesses across all age groups. However, it particularly affects children under the age of 5, individuals with weakened immune systems, and elderly people. Globally, HMPV is responsible for 4-16% of respiratory infections. Cases often peak between May and November. While it typically causes symptoms similar to the common cold, it can also lead to severe complications like pneumonia, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). To protect children from HMPV, doctors recommend the following preventive measures:

1. Hand Hygiene

• Importance: Maintaining proper hand hygiene is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent HMPV.
• Practice: Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use a hand sanitizer.
• Additional Steps:
  • Wash hands after touching door handles, toys, or sneezing/coughing.
  • Teach children to use tissues to cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of the tissue immediately and wash hands.

2. Regular Cleaning and Disinfection

• Surface Cleaning: Frequently clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces such as door handles, toys, light switches, remote controls, and electronic devices.
• Shared Items: Sanitize items that children share, like toys, to reduce the risk of contamination.
• Safe Products: Always use child-safe cleaning products to ensure safety during disinfection.

3. Avoid Contact with Infected Individuals

• Isolation: Keep children away from individuals who show signs of illness until they recover.
• Boost Immunity: Promote a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and physical activity to strengthen their immune system.
• Ventilation: Ensure proper airflow indoors by regularly opening windows or using air purifiers to improve air quality.

4. Use of Air Purifiers

• When to Use: Employ air purifiers with filters in spaces with limited ventilation.
• Pollution Control: Protect children from smoke and other pollutants that can worsen respiratory health.

5. Monitor Symptoms

• Common Symptoms: Look out for difficulty breathing, severe coughing, fever, and irritability.
• Seek Medical Help: If your child has trouble breathing or a high fever, consult a doctor immediately.

Vaccination

Although there is no vaccine for HMPV yet, ensuring your child receives routine vaccinations can help prevent secondary infections. Early detection and timely intervention are crucial in managing HMPV-related illnesses.