Assam has reported its first human metapneumovirus (HMPV) case of the season after a 10-month-old child tested positive for the respiratory virus. The infant, undergoing treatment at Assam Medical College and Hospital (AMCH) in Dibrugarh, is in stable condition, according to hospital officials.
The child was admitted four days ago with cold-related symptoms, said Dr. Dhrubajyoti Bhuyan, superintendent of AMCH. Routine testing conducted at the Indian Council of Medical Research-Regional Medical Research Centre (ICMR-RMRC) in Lahowal confirmed the presence of HMPV.
“This is a common virus, and there is nothing to worry about. The child is stable now,” Dr. Bhuyan said, adding that testing for influenza and related infections is a standard procedure.
Dr. Biswajit Borkakoty, a senior scientist at ICMR-RMRC, noted that this is the first confirmed case of HMPV in Assam this season. “Since 2014, we have detected 110 HMPV cases in Dibrugarh district. It is detected every year, and there is nothing unusual,” he said.
HMPV, a respiratory virus identified in 2001, typically causes mild cold-like symptoms but can lead to severe respiratory issues in infants and people with weakened immune systems. The virus is most active between November and May and contributes to 4-16% of acute respiratory infections globally.
HMPV Cases in Other States
Gujarat: An eight-year-old boy from Sabarkantha district has tested positive for HMPV, marking the third case in the state. His samples are undergoing confirmation at a government lab.
Maharashtra: Two suspected cases were reported in Nagpur. Both patients, in good health, were discharged after treatment. Samples have been sent to AIIMS and the National Institute of Virology for further analysis.
Health officials emphasize that while HMPV is common, timely detection and treatment are crucial, especially for vulnerable populations like children and the elderly. Citizens are advised to follow general respiratory hygiene measures, such as regular handwashing and wearing masks in crowded areas, to prevent the spread of respiratory infections.
