#asktheexperts How to protect baby from HMPV virus

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Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that can affect both children and adults, causing symptoms similar to the common cold or flu. In babies, it can lead to more serious respiratory issues like bronchiolitis or pneumonia. Protecting your baby from HMPV and other respiratory viruses is crucial, especially for infants with weaker immune systems. Here are some steps you can take to protect your baby:

1. Practice Good Hand Hygiene:

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before handling your baby, preparing their food, or after touching potentially contaminated surfaces.

Ensure that family members and caregivers follow good hand hygiene as well.

2. Limit Exposure to Sick Individuals:

Keep your baby away from people who have cold-like symptoms, coughs, or other respiratory illnesses.

If someone in your household is sick, try to avoid close contact with your baby until they recover.

3. Disinfect Surfaces:

Regularly clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces, like doorknobs, light switches, toys, and countertops, to minimize the risk of virus transmission.

4. Avoid Crowded Places:

Avoid taking your baby to crowded places, especially during peak cold and flu seasons. This reduces their exposure to people who may be carrying respiratory viruses.

5. Breastfeeding:

If possible, continue breastfeeding, as breast milk contains antibodies that can help support your baby's immune system and protect them from infections.

6. Keep Baby’s Environment Well-Ventilated:

Ensure good air circulation in your home. Proper ventilation helps reduce the concentration of viruses in the air.

7. Avoid Smoking Around Your Baby:

Exposure to smoke, including second-hand smoke, can weaken your baby's respiratory system and make them more vulnerable to infections like HMPV.

8. Monitor for Symptoms:

Watch for symptoms such as fever, cough, difficulty breathing, or wheezing. If your baby shows signs of respiratory distress or seems unwell, contact a doctor immediately.

9. Ensure Proper Immunization:

Keep up with your baby’s vaccinations, as some vaccines, such as the flu vaccine, can help protect against respiratory infections that may complicate things.

Since HMPV is most often transmitted through respiratory droplets (coughs, sneezes) and direct contact, practicing good hygiene and minimizing exposure to sick individuals are the best preventative measures. If your baby develops symptoms of a respiratory infection, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly.