Sanjida Akter, the first patient in Bangladesh diagnosed with the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), has passed away while undergoing treatment at the Infectious Diseases Hospital in Mohakhali.

The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) confirmed the information on Thursday.

According to DGHS officials, "This is the only HMPV case we have reported this year. The patient passed away on Wednesday evening. However, it does not seem that HMpv alone caused her death."

They explained that an additional organism was found in her system, and she was already suffering from multiple complications. It cannot be conclusively said that HMPV was the sole reason for her death. There is no cause for panic regarding HMPV, they added.

A briefing on the matter is scheduled for 1:15 pm today by Dr Md Sayedur Rahman, Special Assistant Professor at the Ministry of Health.

Medical team deployed at Hili Checkpost to combat HMPV virus

Earlier, the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) revealed on Sunday (January 12) that the patient, a woman from Bhairab in Kishoreganj district, had contracted the virus.

IEDCR Director, Professor Tahmina Shirin, said, "Every year, we observe two to four cases of HMpv infection."

While the virus has gained attention recently, particularly after its widespread presence in northern China, experts have dismissed concerns about a potential pandemic.

The Chinese Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advised citizens to adopt precautionary measures to avoid infection.

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Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning commented, "Respiratory illnesses such as HMpv tend to surge during the winter months. However, the spread this year has been notably less compared to previous years."

What is HMPV?

Human metapneumovirus is a respiratory virus that can cause mild cold-like symptoms in most individuals. However, in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and immunocompromised individuals, the virus can lead to severe respiratory illnesses.

Bangladeshi health authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and follow standard health guidelines to minimise risks during the winter season.