Seven cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection have been identified in children across India so far. Two cases each have been reported in Bengaluru, Nagpur, and Tamil Nadu, and one in Ahmedabad. The virus, which originated in China, is gaining traction in India.
Union Health Minister JP Nadda has sought to alleviate concerns. He said that the rise in HMPV cases is not likelyto lead to an outbreak similar to COVID-19. HMPV is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001 and has been circulating globally for years. Experts say that HMPV rarely requires hospitalization, and timely treatment can mitigate complications.
In response to the situation, several states, including Delhi, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Gujarat, have issued advisories. Addressing public concerns and social media discussions regarding the virus, Nadda assured in a video message that the government is actively monitoring the situation and enforcing necessary public safety measures.
In Maharashtra, two cases of HMPV virus have been confirmed in Nagpur, with symptoms seen in two children. The children tested positive and were hospitalized. A seven-year-old boy and a 13-year-old girl showed symptoms such as cough and fever.
On the other hand, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said that no cases of HMPV have been foundin Mumbai. The BMC said that both the Central and Maharashtra governments regard HMPV as not a major concern, with precautions in place to prevent its spread.
On January 3, the Directorate of Health Services in Pune issued guidelines outlining preventive measures. The Public Health Department said that respiratory infection data in the state did not show a big rise in cases from December 2024 compared to the previous year.
To prevent HMPV infection, the Health Department has suggested that citizens follow certain guidelines. These include covering the mouth and nose with a handkerchief or tissue while coughing or sneezing, frequent handwashing with soap and water or using alcohol-based sanitizer, and avoiding public places if experiencing symptoms like fever, cough, or sneezing.
Besides, people are encouraged to ensure proper ventilation in their living spaces, drink plenty of water, consume nutritious foods, and refrain from shaking hands. The Ministry of Health, ICMR, and NCDC are monitoring the situation in China and neighboring countries, with the WHO also taking note and preparing to share its findings.
HMPV was first identified in the Netherlands in 2001 and can cause a range of respiratory issues, from mild infections to severe conditions like bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
