Gujarat has reported its first case of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), marking the third confirmed case in India. The infected individual, a two-month-old boy from Dungarpur, Rajasthan, was admitted to a private hospital in Ahmedabad on 24 December with symptoms of a respiratory infection. According to the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, the infant is in stable condition and under isolation for close monitoring.
This development follows two earlier cases detected in Bengaluru, where an eight-month-old and a three-month-old infant were diagnosed with the virus. Both have shown positive recovery signs, with one already discharged from the hospital. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) confirmed these cases through routine surveillance for respiratory pathogens.
Meanwhile, China is experiencing a significant surge in respiratory illnesses, including HMPV. Reports from the WHO’s Western Pacific Region Office indicate a rise in acute respiratory infections, including seasonal influenza, rhinovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Chinese hospitals, especially children’s facilities, are overwhelmed, dealing with increased cases of pneumonia, often referred to as “white lung” symptoms. Despite social media claims of a state of emergency, Chinese authorities have not officially confirmed an HMPV outbreak.
Addressing the infected cases, the Union Health Ministry of India said, “The ICMR has detected two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka. Both cases were identified through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens, as part of ICMR’s ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses across the country,” as reported by the CNBC TV18. It further reassures the public that there is no cause for panic. “We are well-equipped to handle the situation,” said an official source.
The state health ministry has called an emergency meeting to address concerns over the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). However, sources from the Union Health Ministry have clarified that there has been no unusual rise in respiratory illnesses, and the Centre is prepared to manage the situation. HMPV, a known virus causing about 12% of respiratory infections in children, is similar to the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and was first identified in the Netherlands in 2001. Health officials, including Dr. Atul Goel, emphasized that HMPV typically causes mild flu-like symptoms, particularly in young children and the elderly. Dr. Raman Gangakhedkar of ICMR reassured that there is no immediate cause for concern unless the virus undergoes significant mutation.
Symptoms of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV):
- Cough
- Fever
- Nasal congestion
- Sore throat
- Shortness of breath
Who is at Higher Risk?
- Young children
- Older adults
- Individuals with weakened immune systems
Prevention Tips:
- Practice good hygiene (hand washing, sanitization)
- Avoid close contact with sick individuals
- Cover mouth and nose while sneezing or coughing
- Stay home when feeling unwell
Authorities across India are maintaining vigilance, with the The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is monitoring the situation closely in collaboration with international health agencies, particularly in light of a reported HMPV outbreak in China. As winter progresses, the public is urged to remain cautious and follow health advisories.
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