No HMPV cases in Andhra; need not panic, says health official

She added that it can also spread through coughing, sneezing, touch, and handshakes with infected individuals.
Similarly, Padmavathi noted that the disease can spread through utensils used by infected individuals.
The symptoms of the disease typically appear 3 to 10 days after infection and include flu-like signs such as cough, blocked nose, runny nose, sore throat, and breathing difficulties.

In some cases, she noted, pneumonia and bronchitis may also develop. She added that the disease tends to be more severe in children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses.

Recommending preventive measures similar to those followed during Covid-19, the director advised washing hands with soap for at least 20 seconds and covering the nose and mouth with a handkerchief while coughing or sneezing, among other precautions.

She further noted that there is currently no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV and added that affected children and elderly individuals will be treated at government hospitals.