Union Health Minister Shri J P Nadda reassured the public on Monday about the status of HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus), confirming that there has been no increase in cases in India. He emphasised that the virus, first identified in 2001, is seasonal and continues to be closely monitored by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

Minister Nadda stated that there is no need to worry about HMPV cases, adding that the virus is not new and primarily spreads during the winter and early spring months. He reassured the public that authorities are actively overseeing the situation and managing any potential outbreaks.

Also Read

placeholder

2 Indian companies charged with criminal conspiracy for US import of fentanyl precursor chemicals

placeholder

DOs and DON’Ts to prevent the spread of HMP virus

placeholder

Indian native from Spain searches for mother who abandoned her 20 years ago in Bhubaneswar

placeholder

HMPV: Maharashtra, Delhi, Telangana govts issue advisory after first case detected in Bengaluru

placeholder

India’s metro network now 3rd largest in the world

Recent HMPV cases reported in India

Health officials recently reported three cases of HMPV in India. The affected individuals include two infants from Bengaluru (Karnataka) -- a 3-month-old girl and an 8-month-old boy -- and a 2-year-old child from Ahmedabad (Gujarat).

The cases from Karnataka were detected through routine surveillance by ICMR. Both infants had a history of bronchopneumonia, a type of pneumonia that affects the lungs and bronchi. The baby girl has been discharged, and the baby boy is currently recovering in a private hospital.

In the third case, a child from Ahmedabad, showing symptoms of cold and cough, was admitted to a private hospital in the Chandkheda area. The child is reported to be stable after receiving treatment.

HMPV: Symptoms and background

HMPV is part of the Pneumoviridae family, which also includes the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Common symptoms of HMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. Despite the recent cases, health authorities have confirmed that there has been no confirmed rise in HMPV infections in the country.

The Ministry of Health, ICMR, and NCDC continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure public health safety. Health experts stress that while HMPV cases are seasonal, vigilance remains crucial in preventing any potential spread.