'No Cause for Alarm': Indian Health Agency Amid Rising Concerns Over HMPV Spread in China

New Delhi: Amid growing concerns over the spread of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China, Dr. Atul Goyal, a senior official from India’s Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has reassured the public, urging calm and said that there is no immediate threat. Goyal advised people to follow general precautions against all respiratory infections. "There is nothing to be alarmed about the present situation", said Goyal. 

"Metapneumovirus is like any other respiratory virus that causes the common cold. In the very young and elderly, it can cause flu-like symptoms. We have analyzed respiratory outbreak data within the country. There is no significant increase in cases reported in December 2024, nor have there been any large outbreaks at our institutions", Goyal clarified.

Dr. Goyal added that winter typically sees an uptick in respiratory infections, but hospitals are well-prepared with necessary resources. He encouraged people to take basic preventive measures, including avoiding close contact when experiencing symptoms like cough and cold, using separate handkerchiefs or towels for sneezing and coughing, and taking standard cold and fever medications. He concluded, "Otherwise, there is nothing to be alarmed about the present situation."  

Meanwhile, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) under the Union Health Ministry also said that it is closely monitoring cases of respiratory and seasonal influenza in the country and is coordinating with international agencies. “We will continue to monitor the situation closely, validate information and update accordingly,” news agency ANI quoted an official source as saying. 

"The data from December 16-22, indicates a recent rise in acute respiratory infections, including seasonal influenza, rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and human metapneumovirus (hMPV), however, the overall scale and intensity of respiratory infectious diseases in China this year is lower than last year. A seasonal increase in respiratory pathogens is expected in the northern hemisphere, particularly during the winter period," sources said after an update from WPRO.

On the other hand, Dr Arjun Dang, CEO, Dr Dangs Lab, said that the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China highlights the need for heightened surveillance and early detection mechanisms to curb its spread. "The resurgence of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) underscores the ever-evolving challenges posed by respiratory viruses, particularly in high-density populations. HMPV, a relatively underrecognized pathogen, has been a silent contributor to seasonal respiratory illnesses globally. At Dr Dangs Lab, we have routinely reported cases of HMPV during flu seasons, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, older adults, and those with compromised immune systems. This outbreak in China highlights the need for heightened surveillance and early detection mechanisms to curb its spread," Dr Arjun Dang stated. 

Dr Dang said that HMPV usually shows symptoms similar to other respiratory viruses and if the outbreak isn't quickly controlled, it can put a lot of strain on the healthcare system.

"HMPV commonly manifests with symptoms akin to other respiratory viruses, including fever, cough, nasal congestion, shortness of breath, and wheezing. Severe cases can lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia, particularly in high-risk groups. The burden on the healthcare system can be significant if the outbreak is not swiftly contained," Dr Arjun Dang added. 

Dr. Arjun Dang highlighted that "Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing remains the gold standard for diagnosing HMPV."

He further explained, "Unfortunately, there is no specific antiviral treatment for HMPV, and management is primarily supportive, focusing on hydration, fever control, and oxygen therapy in severe cases." Dr. Dang stressed that prevention is crucial in controlling the virus's spread, as there is no targeted antiviral therapy available.

He added, "Therefore, prevention becomes the cornerstone of controlling its spread. Simple yet effective measures such as frequent hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette (covering coughs and sneezes), and avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals can significantly mitigate transmission." 

Dr. Dang also talked about the importance of public awareness, urging that “Government authorities must ensure robust public awareness campaigns emphasizing these preventive strategies.”