There is no role of antibiotics in treating the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory illness currently seeing an uptick in the country, said former AIIMS Director Dr Randeep Guleria, on Tuesday asking people to maintain proper hydration, and eat nutritious food. 

Speaking to IANS, Guleria, Chairman, Institute of Internal Medicine, Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Medanta Gurugram, said the virus is not new and causes only mild infection.

"HMPV is an old virus, not a new one. It has been present for a while. Viruses typically cause mild illness, but in the elderly, young children, infants, and people with comorbidities, they can cause pneumonia, which can cause breathing problems and hospitalization, according to Guleria.

The virus typically resolves on its own; you only need to treat its symptoms. "Take fever medication, stay hydrated, and eat healthily," he continued, advising people to stay away from crowded areas to prevent the infection from spreading.