HMPV outbreak: How much HMPV test costs In India? Know here

India recently identified seven cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus, that may lead to mild or serious illness. The cases in Nagpur surfaced on Tuesday; previous cases have come to light in Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Chennai, and Salem. It has been seen that the impact of HMPV is primarily upon children, the elderly, and the immunocompromised.

Diagnostic tests of HMPV involve advanced technology such as the BioFire panel, which can simultaneously test for the presence of several pathogens, including HMPV. The cost of testing ranges from ₹3,000 to ₹8,000 in the well-known labs of Dr. Lal PathLabs, Tata 1mg Labs, and Max Healthcare Labs. Total testing including others in the respiratory group might amount to ₹20,000. Nasopharyngeal swabs, sputum, or tracheal aspirates are some of the most commonly used samples for diagnosis.

HMPV, a RNA virus isolated for the first time in 2001, is known to be highly active during cold months and involves the respiratory tract. In otherwise healthy adults, it is mostly manifested by common cold symptoms such as sore throat, coughing, and nasal congestion. However, more serious conditions, including accelerated breathing, cyanosis, wheezing, pneumonia, or respiratory distress can be manifested in sensitive groups such as infants and the elderly.

Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for HMPV. Patients with mild forms of the illness are usually cured at home; however, a more severe infection may necessitate hospitalization. Severe symptom treatments include oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, and corticosteroids. Preventive measures include good hygiene and mask usage to minimize infections.