Dhaka, Jan 16 (V7N) — A 30-year-old woman from Bhairab, Kishoreganj, has become the first person in Bangladesh to die from the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), according to the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR). The virus, which has recently caused alarm in China, was detected in her body on January 12, with her death reported on Thursday.

The Directorate General of Health Services previously warned about the increasing prevalence of HMPV in China, sparking fears of a potential health crisis following the COVID-19 pandemic. However, IEDCR Director Professor Tahmina Shirin clarified, “Human metapneumovirus is not new and has been detected in various countries, including Bangladesh.”

HMPV was first identified in 2001 but is believed to have existed for centuries. It primarily causes symptoms resembling the common cold or flu, including fever, cough, runny nose, and in severe cases, bronchitis or pneumonia. Vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk.

The virus spreads through respiratory droplets, close contact, and contaminated surfaces, similar to COVID-19. Symptoms usually appear within three to six days of exposure. While infections typically increase during the winter months, health experts have assured that HMPV is not a new virus, and the general population has some level of immunity.

Bangladesh previously detected HMPV around 2016–2017. Virologists have emphasized that there is no immediate cause for alarm, citing the absence of any official warnings from the World Health Organization (WHO) or the Chinese government.

However, health authorities have urged the public to maintain good hygiene practices, avoid close contact with infected individuals, and stay vigilant, especially during the winter months when infections tend to rise.

HMPV has gained attention recently due to rising cases in China, particularly among children under 14. Despite reports of increased infections, Chinese authorities have denied claims of overcrowded hospitals. Meanwhile, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reiterated that HMPV is not new and has been manageable in the past.

While the global community closely monitors the situation, health experts stress that the virus is unlikely to pose the same level of threat as COVID-19.

END/MSS/AJ