A woman named Sanjida Akter (30) passed away last Wednesday night while undergoing treatment at Mohakhali Infectious Diseases Hospital in Dhaka. She was the first recorded death in Bangladesh caused by the human metapneumovirus (HMPV). Sanjida, originally from Bhairab in Kishoreganj, tested positive for HMPV on January 12, with no prior history of foreign travel. Since 2017, at least 18 cases have been identified in the country.

According to the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control, and Research (IEDCR), the virus was first detected earlier this January in China, followed by outbreaks in Japan, Malaysia, and India.

To curb the spread of HMPV, Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport authorities issued special guidelines on Monday. Passengers, staff, and visitors are advised to wear masks and use hand sanitizer, with immediate reporting of symptoms such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath to the airport health services. Airlines operating at the airport, both domestic and international, have been instructed to implement preventive measures, particularly for travelers arriving from countries with reported HMPV cases. Additionally, any symptomatic individuals onboard flights must be reported to health authorities upon arrival.