Amid Flu Surge in China, HMVP Reaches India; Two Infants Test Positive in Bengaluru, One in Gujarat

Bengaluru: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has confirmed two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka through routine surveillance for respiratory viral pathogens, the Union Health Ministry said on Monday.

A three-month-old female infant with a history of bronchopneumonia was diagnosed with HMPV after being admitted to a private hospital in Bengaluru. She has since been discharged, the ministry confirmed. The second case involves an eight-month-old male who tested positive for HMPV on January 3 after being admitted to the same hospital. He is currently recovering.

Notably, neither patient has a history of international travel, the ministry emphasized.

HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India, and respiratory illnesses associated with the virus have been reported in various countries. However, the ministry stressed that based on current data from ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), there has been no unusual surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases in the country.

Health Ministry Confirms Cases: 

The Union Health Ministry is closely monitoring the situation through all available surveillance channels. ICMR will continue tracking HMPV circulation trends throughout the year, while the World Health Organization (WHO) is providing updates on global developments, including the situation in China.
 

A recent preparedness drill conducted across India indicated that the country is well-equipped to manage any potential increase in respiratory illnesses. Public health interventions can be deployed promptly if required.

Third Case Reported in Gujarat

First case of HMPV has also been reported in Gujarat. A 2-month-old baby positive has tested positive in Ahmedabad. The infant is currently undergoing treatment at a private hospital. 

HMPV Outbreak: Karnataka Government Issues Advisory

Before the cases were confirmed, the Karnataka government had issued an advisory to ensure the safety of residents. The government emphasized that no other HMPV cases have been reported in Karnataka to date. The Department of Health and Family Welfare has analyzed data on prevailing respiratory infections, such as the common cold, influenza-like illness (ILI), and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI), and reported no significant increase in cases in December 2024 compared to the previous year. Residents are urged to follow safety guidelines to protect themselves and prevent the spread of infections.

HMPV Virus: Dos and Don'ts by Govt of Karnataka

Dos:
Cover your mouth and nose with handkerchief or tissue paper, when you cough or sneeze.
Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizer Avoid crowded places
Stay away from public places if you have fever, cough and sneezing. Adequate ventilation with outdoor air is recommended in all settings to reduce the transmission
Stay at home and limit contact with others if you are sick
Drink plenty of water and eat nutritious food

Don'ts:
Do not reuse of tissue paper & hand kerchief
Completely avoid close contact with sick people, sharing of towels, linen etc. and frequent touching of eyes, nose & mouth
Spitting in public places is a complete no-no
Do not go for self-medication without consulting the physician.

‘Safe To Travel’: China's First Statement AMID HMPV Spread

Meanwhile, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs had issued its first statement regarding the spread of HMPV amid growing global concern. Spokesperson Mao Ning stated, “Respiratory infections tend to peak during the winter season. I can assure you that the Chinese government cares about the health of Chinese citizens and foreigners coming to China. It is safe to travel in China. The disease appears to be less severe and has spread on a smaller scale compared to the previous year.”

What is HMPV? Symptoms and Global Impact

HMPV was first discovered in 2001 and is known to primarily affect the upper and lower respiratory tracts. While the virus can infect people of all ages, young children and senior citizens are at higher risk. Symptoms include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath, with severe cases potentially leading to complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia. Symptoms typically appear within three to six days after exposure.

Severe cases may lead to complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia. Symptoms typically appear within three to six days after exposure.

HMPV cases have been reported in countries such as the United States, Canada, and several European nations. Research published by Creative Diagnostics highlights the global presence of the virus, with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting an 11% increase in HMPV cases in 2023.

(Inputs from agencies)