india

Two cases of HMPV virus detected in India, infants test positive in Bengaluru

A three-month-old and an eight-month-old infants in Bengaluru have been diagnosed with the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), marking the first cases in India. The cases were confirmed by the Karnataka Health Department before being reported to the Union Health Ministry. In response to a surge in respiratory illnesses in China, the Ministry held a joint monitoring meeting to review the situation. It assured the public that India is well-prepared to manage such cases, with effective surveillance systems in place. The Ministry also stated that the rise in cases in China is not unusual, as it coincides with the flu season. The increase is attributed to common respiratory viruses like influenza, RSV, and HMPV. HMPV typically causes mild cold-like symptoms, especially in children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Most people contract the virus before the age of five.

first published: Jan 6, 2025 01:23 pm