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HMPV infected woman died of pneumonia, organ failures: Health Ministry
Prof. Dr. Md Sayedur Rahman, Special Assistant to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, confirmed today that the 30-year-old woman, Sanjida Akhter, who passed away from a Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection, succumbed not only to pneumonia but also to multi-organ failure (multiple organ dysfunction syndrome).
Dr. Rahman addressed the media during an urgent press conference, following reports on Sanjida's death from HMPV. He explained that Sanjida had been suffering from the virus for over a month before seeking treatment. Initially, she sought care from unregistered doctors near her home. However, her condition worsened, prompting her to visit a hospital in Dhaka, where she received antibiotics and oxygen. Despite this, her condition deteriorated further, leading to her transfer to another facility. It was there that she tested positive for HMPV.
Sanjida died on Wednesday evening after intensive treatment.
While urging the public to remain calm, Dr. Rahman reassured citizens that the virus could be prevented by adhering to health guidelines and maintaining general hygiene. "There is no need for panic. By following simple precautions, we can protect ourselves from HMPV," he emphasized.
The Health Ministry is not issuing a formal warning but advises people to follow basic hygiene measures, such as washing hands regularly, avoiding public places when ill, and staying home to prevent the spread of infection. "If you are sick, it’s important to stay home and limit contact with others," Dr. Rahman added.
Health Services Division Secretary Md Saidur Rahman, Director General of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) Prof. Dr. Md Abu Zafar, and Director of the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control & Research (IEDCR) Professor Dr. Tahmina Shirin were also present at the press conference.