Two Cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Detected in Karnataka: No Cause for Alarm, Say Authorities
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has identified two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka during routine surveillance for respiratory viruses. The cases were detected as part of ICMR’s continuous efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses across the country, according to an official press release issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
Details of the Cases Identified
The two confirmed cases were both reported from Baptist Hospital, Bengaluru, and involved infants with a history of bronchopneumonia:
- A 3-month-old female infant was diagnosed with HMPV and has since been discharged from the hospital.
- An 8-month-old male infant tested positive for HMPV on January 3, 2025, and is currently recovering well.
Neither of the infants has any history of international travel, as per the Health Ministry’s official press release.
No Unusual Surge in Respiratory Illness Cases
The ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) have jointly clarified that no unusual increase in cases of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) has been reported across the country. The Health Ministry has assured that the nation’s surveillance system is robust, with ongoing monitoring to track trends in respiratory pathogens.
HMPV: A Known Virus, No Public Health Threat Identified
ANI reported that while addressing public concerns, Union Health Minister JP Nadda confirmed that HMPV is not a new virus. He explained, “Health experts have clarified that HMPV was first identified in 2001 and has been circulating globally for many years. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets and can affect individuals of all age groups, particularly during the winter and early spring months.”
ALSO READ | HMPV Outbreak: ‘Not a New Virus, Known for Over 20 Years’ – Leading Doctors
He further stated that the Health Ministry, ICMR, and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) are closely monitoring the situation both in India and globally, including the rise in respiratory illnesses in China.
#WATCH | Union Health Minister JP Nadda says, "Health experts have clarified that #HMPV is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001 and it has been circulating in the entire world since many years. HMPV spreads through air, by way of respiration. This can affect persons… pic.twitter.com/h1SSshe2iQ
— ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025
India’s Preparedness and Vigilance
The Health Ministry press release highlighted that India recently conducted a preparedness drill, which reaffirmed the country’s capacity to manage any potential surge in respiratory illnesses effectively. The health systems and surveillance networks remain vigilant, ensuring public health interventions can be swiftly implemented if needed.
The situation remains under control, with no indication of widespread HMPV-related respiratory illnesses in the country. Health authorities continue to monitor the virus closely and emphasize that there is no cause for public concern.
