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HMPV Virus in India; 5 confirmed cases so far, states on high alert to check surge

Five cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection have been reported in India, with the government reassuring that there is no need for alarm as the virus is already circulating globally. The first two cases were detected at Bengaluru's Baptist Hospital, where an eight-month-old boy and a three-month-old girl, both showing pneumonia symptoms, were treated. While the girl has been discharged, the boy remains under care. HMPV, recognized in 2001, spreads through the air and causes flu-like symptoms such as sore throat, fever, and a common cold, with severe cases potentially leading to bronchitis and pneumonia. The Union Health Ministry confirmed that HMPV has been circulating in India and globally, and there is no link to recent respiratory infections in China. The five confirmed cases are in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat, including a baby in Ahmedabad and two cases in Tamil Nadu’s Chennai and Salem.

first published: Jan 7, 2025 05:09 pm