Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases are rising rapidly across India. The latest developments include the diagnosis of HMPV in two more children in Chennai, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the country to six.
A three-month-old infant in Bengaluru, who had contracted the virus, has since recovered and was discharged from the hospital. A nine-month-old child is currently receiving treatment. Additionally, two-month-old and five-month-old infants in Ahmedabad (Gujarat) and Kolkata (West Bengal) have also tested positive for the virus.
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In response to the increasing number of HMPV cases, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) issued a statement confirming that the virus is already circulating globally, including in India. The ICMR also noted that various countries have reported cases of respiratory illnesses associated with HMPV. Despite the rise in cases, the ICMR assured that the country is well-prepared to manage the situation.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has emphasized that it is closely monitoring the situation and continues to provide updates on the evolving circumstances.
Medical experts have reassured the public, emphasizing that there is no cause for undue alarm. HMPV is not a new virus, and similar cases have been documented in previous years. Experts noted that such cases typically occur between July and January each year. Symptoms are generally mild, including cough, cold, and fever. In rare instances, if the virus causes severe illness, oxygen therapy may be required.
The health community continues to advise individuals to take preventive measures to reduce the spread of respiratory infections and seek timely medical attention if necessary.