In the wake of the spread of the HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) virus in China, the Telangana Health department today assured the public that there was no cause for alarm within the State.
The Director of Public Health and Family Welfare B Ravinder Nayak said that no cases of HMPV had been registered in the State so far.
Nayak explained that HMPV behaved in a manner similar to other respiratory viruses, causing common cold- and flu-like symptoms during the winter months, particularly affecting children and the older age groups. In more severe cases, the virus could lead to bronchitis and pneumonia, he said. Symptoms typically appeared within three to six days, he added.
He advised individuals with cold and cough symptoms to avoid contact with groups.