Kathmandu — The Ministry of Health and Population has stated that it is a common virus of the ‘Human Metapneumovirus’ (HMPV) that was said to have been seen in China. The ministry issued a statement drawing attention to the misleading propaganda being spread on various media and social media, and urged people not to follow such rumors.

‘It is natural for the rate of respiratory infections to increase during the winter months, Human Metapneumovirus is not a new virus, which is a virus that causes common cold that has been seen in Nepal in the past, for which Nepal has already made the necessary capacity and preparations for testing, monitoring and response,’ the statement said.

The ministry also informed that the risk of serious problems from this virus is low and that its infection is generally only likely to occur in people with weak immune systems, young children and the elderly. However, the ministry stated that surveillance and awareness have been increased by the ministry, Department of Health Services, Epidemiology and Disease Control Division, hospitals and laboratories.

The Ministry has requested everyone to adopt personal safety measures (wearing masks, avoiding crowds) as it is appropriate to follow public health standards for infectious diseases including HMPV and Ampux.

Similarly, the Ministry has also requested everyone to avoid close contact with patients, wash hands with soap and water, and seek proper medical advice from a doctor if they experience health problems, and to contact the Ministry’s Hello Health Call Center 1115 for consultation.