Key Points:
- First Cases in India: Three cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) reported in Bengaluru and Gujarat.
- Affected Individuals: Infants aged 2, 3, and 8 months; no international travel history noted.
- Government Response: Karnataka Health Minister convened an emergency meeting to assess the situation.
- Global Context: Rising cases in China attributed to seasonal patterns; WHO and Indian authorities monitoring closely.
- Precautions: Respiratory etiquette and standard cold/flu prevention measures advised by health officials.
New Delhi: Amid rising concerns over Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in China, India has reported its first three confirmed cases of the respiratory virus. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), two cases were detected in Bengaluru, involving an 8-month-old and a 3-month-old infant, and a third case emerged in Gujarat, where a 2-month-old child tested positive for HMPV.
The affected children were hospitalized for treatment. While the 3-month-old infant in Bengaluru has since been discharged, authorities continue to monitor the other cases. Initial investigations revealed no international travel history among the infected children, although one had recently traveled to Tirupati.
Government and Health Authorities Respond
The Karnataka Health Department confirmed the diagnosis of the 8-month-old child and informed the Union Health Ministry. Following this, Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao called for an emergency meeting with health officials to review the situation.
ICMR emphasized that HMPV is not a new virus and has been in global circulation since its discovery in 2001. Current surveillance data from ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) indicate no unusual surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases in India.
The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) reassured citizens that it is closely monitoring respiratory infections in coordination with international agencies.
Understanding HMPV
First identified in 2001 in The Netherlands, HMPV is a respiratory virus closely related to the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). According to the American Society for Microbiology, HMPV typically causes cold and flu-like symptoms, particularly in young children and the elderly.
Symptoms include fever, cough, and nasal congestion, which are usually mild but can lead to complications in vulnerable individuals.
China’s HMPV Surge: A Seasonal Phenomenon?
China recently reported a surge in HMPV cases but dismissed concerns, calling it an “annual seasonal recurrence.” Chinese officials attributed the rise to the winter season, assuring tourists and citizens of safe travel conditions.
Precautionary Measures for the Public
Health officials, including Dr. Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services, advise the public to adopt standard precautions for respiratory infections:
- Avoid close contact with individuals exhibiting cold or flu symptoms.
- Practice respiratory etiquette, such as covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing.
- Use over-the-counter medications for mild cold and fever symptoms.
- Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen, especially in infants and the elderly.
Conclusion: Vigilance Is Key
As the situation unfolds, Indian health authorities are actively monitoring the virus and collaborating with international agencies to mitigate risks. While there is no cause for immediate alarm, maintaining respiratory hygiene and adhering to preventive measures remain essential for public safety.
