The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) on Sunday (Jan 12) evening issued a seven-point directive to prevent the spread of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). The directives were signed by Professor Dr Md Halimur Rashid, Line Director of the Communicable Disease Control (CDC) Programme at the DGHS. Earlier in the day, the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) reported Bangladesh’s first case of HMPV.
The DGHS said that HMPV has been spreading and intensifying alarmingly in several countries, including China and parts of the subcontinent.
In its advisory, the DGHS mentioned that the virus is more prevalent among children under 14 and individuals aged 65 or above. Additionally, people with long-term health conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems are at high risk.
Although the virus has been found in other countries, including Bangladesh, its recent outbreak in China and elsewhere underscores the need for strict control measures within Bangladesh.
DGHS directed all medical colleges, hospitals, civil surgeons’ offices, district health superintendents, upazila health complexes, and airport and port health officials to take measures to prevent the transmission of HMPV.
Preventive measures suggested by DGHS:
1. Wear masks to protect yourself from respiratory illnesses during winter.
2. Cover your nose and mouth with a handkerchief or tissue while sneezing or coughing.
3. Dispose of used tissues immediately in a covered trash bin and clean your hands with sanitizer or soap and water.
4. Avoid close contact with infected individuals and maintain a distance of at least three feet.
5. Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer for at least 20 seconds.
6. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unclean hands.
7. If you experience fever, cough, and breathing difficulties, stay home until you recover. Visit the nearest hospital if necessary.
The DGHS urged everyone to follow these guidelines strictly. The Communicable Disease Control (CDC) unit is keeping a close watch on the situation.
Regarding the virus, IEDCR Director Professor Tahmina Shirin said, “Human Metapneumovirus is not a new virus. It is found not only in China but also in many countries around the world. We detected its presence in Bangladesh earlier.” She assured that there is no need to panic.
