Special HMPV ICU Ward Set Up in Jammu

• 09 Jan 2025

Why in News? 

Recently, the Jammu and Kashmir health department has established a specialized ICU ward in Jammu to address concerns about a potential outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases detected in the country. 

 Key Points 

• Preparedness for Potential Outbreak: 
  • The ward is centrally heated, equipped with eight ventilator-supported beds, and provides a 24x7 oxygen supply. 
  • Doctors have reassured the public that HMPV is not a new pathogen and is not causing a widespread outbreak. 
  • Describing it as a mild upper respiratory disease, Doctors highlighted that only six cases have been detected in the country so far, and there is no cause for panic. 
• Enhanced Readiness Measures: 
  • The administration has held meetings to review the situation and ensure sufficient facilities are in place. 
  • The Gandhinagar government hospital’s fully operational oxygen plant, with a capacity of 22,000 liters per minute, supports preparedness. 
    • In addition to the ICU ward, the hospital offers 100 oxygen-supported beds, sufficient concentrators, and various types of oxygen cylinders. 

 Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) 

• Discovery: It was discovered in 2001 by researchers in the Netherlands. It causes acute respiratory infections, similar to flu and Covid-19.  
• Presence: It is not limited to China and is found all over the world. It is clubbed as a common respiratory pathogen. It does not have a vaccine.  
• Symptoms: Cough, fever, sore throat, runny nose, and wheezing, which typically resolve within 2-5 days.  
• Vulnerable Groups: Children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems are most at risk of complications like pneumonia.  
• Transmission: HMPV spreads through close contact or by touching contaminated surfaces.  
• Seasonality: It commonly circulates during winter and spring, along with other respiratory infections like Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and influenza.  
  • HMPV belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, which includes RSV, measles, and mumps viruses.  
• Severity: While most HMPV cases are mild, a small percentage (5-16%) may develop into severe conditions like bronchiolitis or pneumonia.