City Desk :
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Md Shahinul Alam on Friday said Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is an old virus, so everyone should remain alert, not to be panicked.
“We should follow hygiene rules including washing hands and using masks, he said adding that BSMMU has all kinds of preparations for testing HMPV and treating the patients infected with it,”, reports BSS.
The VC said while speaking as the chief guest at a special seminar organized by Internal Medicine Department at the University.
Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research and Development) of BSMMU Prof Dr. Md. Mujibur Rahman Howlader addressed the seminar as the special guest.
Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Prof Dr. Md. Abul Kalam Azad presided over the function while internal medicine department Prof Dr. Sohel Mahmud Arafat presented the keynote paper.
Md. Mujibur Rahman Howlader said that although there is no reason to be panicked about HMPV, but need to be vigilant. Especially, the patients with low immunity should be more careful.
Pro-Vice Chancellor (Administration) Prof Dr. Md. Abul Kalam Azad said creating public awareness on this issue is very important.
Neonatal Medicine Department Chairman Prof Dr. MA Mannan said if a mother is infected with this virus; then there is no problem for breastfeeding to her child.
According to the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), the virus was first detected in early January this year in China. It was later identified in Japan. HMPV cases have also been reported in Malaysia and India.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh issued special directives on Monday to curb the spread of HMPV in Bangladesh.
The directive emphasizes taking precautionary measures against HMPV. Passengers, staff and visitors at Dhaka airport are encouraged to wear masks and use hand sanitizers.
Anyone showing symptoms such as fever, cough or shortness of breath – hallmarks of HMPV – must immediately report to the airport health services.
Special caution is advised when bringing passengers from countries with reported HMPV cases.
If any passenger exhibits symptoms such as fever or cough during the flight, it must be reported to the airport health services without delay.