The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has issued an alert regarding the global circulation of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), including its presence in India. While Bengaluru recently reported two HMPV cases—an 8-month-old infant recovering and a 3-month-old discharged after treatment—health authorities reassured citizens that the country is well-prepared to manage any potential spike in respiratory illnesses.
The health department confirmed that neither of the infected infants nor their families have a history of recent travel, ruling out international exposure. These cases were detected through routine surveillance for respiratory pathogens.
Monitoring and Surveillance in Progress
The ICMR emphasized that HMPV-related respiratory illnesses have been reported in various countries, but current data from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) shows no unusual surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases in India. The Union Health Ministry and ICMR are actively monitoring the situation through extensive surveillance networks.
In response to rising concerns globally, including a surge in cases in China, the Centre convened a Joint Monitoring Group (JMG) with representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO), National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and other health bodies to assess the situation.
State Governments Issue Guidelines
States such as Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Kerala have issued precautionary measures. Kerala’s Health Minister Veena George advised elderly citizens and pregnant women to wear masks but urged the public not to panic.
What Is HMPV?
Discovered in 2001, HMPV belongs to the Pneumoviridae family alongside Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). It spreads through respiratory droplets and direct contact, causing symptoms such as fever, cough, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. Severe cases can lead to pneumonia or chronic respiratory conditions, especially in young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
While HMPV poses a potential health concern, India’s health systems remain vigilant, emphasiSing prevention and timely intervention.
