HMPV virus in India: The first cases of HMPV virus in India was confirmed by the Indian health ministry. Two babies in Bengaluru were tested positive. Notable thing is that both the babies and their family have no recent travel history, confirmed the Ministry of Health.
HMPV Virus In India
India reported her first cases of HMPV virus in a 3 month old baby who has been discharged and an 8 month old who is currently recovering at a hospital in Karnataka’s capital.
“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. HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India, and cases of respiratory illnesses associated with HMPV have been reported in various countries,” the Centre said in a statement.
HMPV Outbreak: What Is HMPV Virus
Human Metapneumovirus or the HMPV virus is a respiratory virus that usually causes mild cold-like symptoms but can lead to complications, especially in infants, the elderly and individuals with weak immune systems. It may sometimes result in pneumonia or worsen chronic respiratory conditions.
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China is currently experiencing an outbreak of HMPV, a respiratory virus. Authorities are monitoring the situation as cases rise during the seasonal surge.
Photos and videos of people wearing masks in Chinese hospitals have surfaced on social media, with local reports drawing comparisons to the early days of the COVID outbreak.
Government Response On HMPV Outbreak In India
The Indian government has assured the country to not panic. The health ministry has convened a meeting to discuss HMPV preparedness in India.
To enhance preparedness for HMPV virus in India, the Centre has expanded lab capacity for HMPV testing. The ICMR will track HMPV trends year-round, alongside other respiratory illnesses like influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI).
A strong surveillance network, comprising ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), remains active in monitoring respiratory infections nationwide.
“Dr. Goel (Dr. Atul Goel, Director-General of Health Services,) emphasized that hospitals in India are fully prepared to handle the seasonal rise in respiratory infections, with adequate supplies and beds available. He urged people to follow basic hygiene practices, and take general precautions to stay safe during the winter season,” stated the Health Ministry of India on HMPV virus cases in India.
Amid the first cases of HMPV virus in India, hospitals have been instructed to reinforce isolation protocols for suspected cases, ensure the availability of necessary medications, and promptly report ILI and SARI cases via the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP).
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