As of January 7, 2025, India has reported seven confirmed cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections, most of them concerning children. Mainly, the cases have been found in Bengaluru, Nagpur, Chennai, and Ahmedabad. Importantly, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has said that there are no detected cases of HMPV in Mumbai.
Current Status of HMPV Cases in India
These seven confirmed cases of HMPV have been distributed within:
- Karnataka: Two cases in Bengaluru
- Maharashtra: Two cases in Nagpur
- Tamil Nadu: Two cases in Chennai
- Gujarat: One case in Ahmedabad
Among the infected infants in Bengaluru, one has been discharged from the hospital, while the other remains under treatment. In Nagpur and Chennai, two children are under observation. In Ahmedabad, a two-month-old infant is receiving care.
The health officials believe these cases are isolated, with no relationship between HMPV arising in China and the cases in India. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), HMPV contributes 3% of the respiratory pathogens identified by the lab network, which tests for Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI).
Health Advisory and Government Response
After the outbreak of HMPV cases, the Union Health Ministry has directed all states and Union Territories to step up the surveillance of ILI and SARI cases. Ordinarily speaking, HMPV infections are said to be mild and self-limiting, and most people will recover without developing any complications.
Satisfactory facility for diagnosis is available to them through the ICMR-Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratories (VRDL) network.
Press Information Bureau
Maharashtra’s Health Minister, Prakash Abitkar, has assured the public that there is a complete safety provision regarding the present suspected cases of HMPV in Nagpur, emphasizing that HMPV is under control and the health department is watching closely as the events unfold.
The BMC has confirmed that not a single case of HMPV has been confirmed in Mumbai, yet the civic body has urged residents to follow common public health precautions of washing hands, wearing masks in crowds, and seeking medical help in case of respiratory symptoms.
Understanding Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)
HMPV is a respiratory virus known to infect individuals in all age groups, but is found more rampant in young children, elderly, and immuno-compromised persons. The mode of transmission could be by respiratory droplets and direct contact with infected surfaces. The symptoms generally mimic those of common cold, like:
- Runny or stuffed nose
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Fever
In very severe cases, this virus can lead to the development of bronchiolitis or pneumonia, requiring hospital admission or medical intervention.
Preventive Aspects
To lessen the risk of HMPV infection, health authorities recommend the following measures:
- Hand Hygiene: Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Respiratory Hygiene: Cough and sneeze into tissues or your elbow.
- Avoid Close Contact: Stay away from those showing respiratory symptoms.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean surfaces which are frequently touched.
- Stay Home When Sick: If ill, please do not spread illness.
While HMPV cases have caused panic in India, the health department assures control of the situation. The reported cases are sporadic, and there is no dissemination in the community as of now.
The public is advised to be vigilant, follow appropriate preventative measures, and visit the healthcare professional in case symptoms develop. The health departments in both the states and national levels continue monitoring the situation very closely for public health sake.
