Bengaluru: Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has once again created panic in the world. People are wondering whether a havoc like corona is going to break out on people once again. The world has not yet fully recovered from the corona epidemic that this new virus named HMPV has scared people. Meanwhile, the Karnataka government on Monday assured that there is nothing to worry about HMPV. The state government said this after two cases of HMPV were reported in Bengaluru. According to the Union Health Ministry, both these patients have no history of international travel. State Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said, "I don't think we should panic, because HMPV is not a new virus. The virus is already present in the country. Reports suggest that this is the first case of HMPV in India, which is not true because the HMPV virus is already present in the country and a few percent of people are infected with this virus and this is nothing new.''

'HMPV has been around for a long time'

He said, the eight-month-old baby has no travel history and they (family) are local residents. They have not come from China or any other country. So I don't think it has any connection with this. The minister said that the cause of the outbreak of HMPV in China is a new form of the virus. He said, "We do not have complete information and the Indian government has not given us complete information yet. Maybe they are trying to gather more information."

The minister said, "HMPV is not a new virus, it has been present for a long time. Viral infection usually causes common symptoms like cold, flu or cough. It is a viral infection that gets cured on its own in a few days without treatment. It goes away after some time. I don't think we should call it the first case."

HMPV found in an 8-month-old girl

Earlier in the day, the health department had said that an eight-month-old infant was found infected with HMPV at a private hospital in the state capital. However, it clarified that the samples were not tested at a government laboratory and confirmation of the infection is awaited. Rao said the central government is closely monitoring the situation in China. Asked about the need for any investigation, the minister said it would be considered. "We are also discussing it internally. I have directed my officials to coordinate with ICMR and the Government of India," he said.

Health Minister gave this advice

He said, whether it is creating any serious public health concern or not, it should be decided first. Is there really a matter of concern about public health, because only one case has come to light? This should be looked into. If you examine a person suffering from cold and flu, he will have some virus. He said that people should take normal precautions and be careful. If people are careful, it is better for us. Especially if you have symptoms, wash your hands, maintain some distance. These things are already included in the advice issued.