India has confirmed its first suspected case of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in an eight-month-old baby from Bengaluru.
Sources from the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) revealed that the suspected case was identified through a private laboratory, with the patient and family reporting no travel history. The case originated from Hunasanahalli in Bengaluru Rural district, and the child has been admitted to Bengaluru Baptist Hospital. The child is expected to be discharged today.
HMPV is a viral respiratory infection that causes symptoms similar to the common cold. It spreads through droplets, direct contact, and possibly airborne particles. Symptoms can range from mild (such as a runny nose) to severe (including breathing difficulties and chest pain).
While the virus has raised concerns due to a recent surge in respiratory illnesses in China, the Centre announced last week that there is no cause for panic as HMPV is not new to India. Medical experts confirm that the virus has been present in the country for years, predominantly affecting children between six months and twelve years old, though cases can also occur in children up to fourteen years old.
Health Authorities Monitor the Situation
Director General of Health Services (DGHS), Atul Goel, reassured the public on Friday that HMPV is similar to other respiratory viruses, causing flu-like symptoms in young children. He stated that no significant increase in respiratory illness cases was reported in December 2024.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) convened a joint monitoring group to assess the situation. The government continues to closely monitor the outbreak, utilizing all available channels, and has requested updates from the World Health Organization (WHO) regarding the situation in China.
To strengthen preparedness, the monitoring group has recommended expanding the number of laboratories under the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) network to test for HMPV and monitor trends throughout the year.
In response to the emerging situation, health departments in states such as Karnataka, Delhi, and Kerala are actively monitoring for HMPV cases. Kerala’s Health Minister, Veena George, emphasized the state’s vigilance in light of the recent outbreak in China, while Karnataka’s health department is expected to release an advisory on precautionary measures by Monday.
