First HMPV death confirmed in Dhaka

A patient infected with the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) died while undergoing treatment at the Infectious Diseases Hospital in the capital's Mohakhali on Wednesday night. 

This is the first HMPV death in Bangladesh, the hospital's Supervisor Dr Ariful Bashar has confirmed. 

The patient was identified as Sanjida Aktar, 30. HMPV was detected in her body on January 12. She had no history of travelling abroad. She died due to complications from secondary infection. 

From 2017 till now, 18 people have been found to be infected by HMPV in the country. 

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is one of the viruses that causes the common cold (upper respiratory infection). It usually makes people only mildly sick, but it can make some people very sick.

It was first identified in 2001 and has been spreading among people for many decades. It is found around the world.

It spreads like other common cold viruses do, through infectious respiratory particles that spread through the air from a sick person to others. This means a person can catch the virus when they are close to a sick person or sharing a closed space with them. It can also enter the body by touching contaminated surfaces like doorknobs or handles and then touching the eyes, nose or mouth.

DGHS guidelines

Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has issued seven directives to prevent the spread of Human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus commonly linked to seasonal illnesses.  

DGHS issued a press release signed by Line Director Professor Dr Md Halimur Rashid in this regard.

The release said that patients of Human metapneumovirus(HMPV) have been detected in Bangladesh after creating panic in neighbouring countries including China.

In the guidelines, DGHS asked all to wear masks to protect them from the virus.

It asked all to cover their noses and mouths with their elbow or tissue while sneezing or coughing.

People should throw the used tissues in a covered trash box immediately and wash their hands with hand sanitiser or soap and water.

DGHS requested all to avoid close contact with people who are sick by maintaining a distance of at least three feet.

It asked all to wash hands frequently (for at least 20 seconds) with soap and water or hand sanitiser.

People should avoid touching their eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands, the release said.

If any individual has a fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, then he or she should stay at home until recovery.

They should contact the nearest hospital if necessary, the release added.