India reported its first two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Bengaluru. The cases involve a 3-month-old infant, who has been discharged after recovery, and an 8-month-old infant, currently recovering in a hospital in the Karnataka capital.
Both infants and their families have no recent travel history, ruling out exposure from other regions or countries. The cases were identified as part of routine surveillance for respiratory viral pathogens conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
“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 stated.
The Health Ministry convened a meeting on HMPV preparedness today, emphasizing monitoring and containment strategies. A Joint Monitoring Group (JMG) held discussions on January 4, with representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO), National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), ICMR, and other health organizations.
The Centre has increased laboratory capacity for HMPV testing and plans to track its trends year-round through ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP).
Hospitals have been advised to enhance isolation protocols, ensure medicine availability, and report influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) cases via the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP).
HMPV is a respiratory virus causing symptoms similar to a cold but can lead to complications like pneumonia, especially in infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Cases often rise during winter and early spring.
Symptoms are Cough, fever, nasal congestion, and, in severe cases, wheezing or shortness of breath. While respiratory illnesses in China have drawn attention, including HMPV, India’s surveillance data does not show an unusual surge.
Precautionary Measures government has emphasized preparedness, including:
•Regular reporting of ILI and SARI cases.
•Strengthened isolation and treatment protocols.
•Enhanced public awareness about hygiene and infection prevention.
With robust surveillance systems in place, authorities aim to closely monitor HMPV trends and ensure rapid containment of any outbreaks.
