Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV): India reports first case of virus in Bengaluru

Amid the reports of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) creating panic situation in China, India also reported the first case of this virus in an eight-month-old baby in Bengaluru on Monday morning. The case was reported at the Baptist Hospital, but the Karnataka state health department clarified that the sample was not tested in their laboratory.

Meanwhile, the health ministry said the government is keeping a close watch over the situation through all available channels and WHO has also been requested to share timely updates regarding the situation in China. These viruses are already in circulation globally including India.

“The situation in China is not unusual in view of the ongoing flu season. The reports also suggest that the cause of the present surge is Influenza virus, RSV and HMPV – the usual pathogens that are expected during the season”, it said.

Director General of Health Services  (DGHS) Dr Atul Goel said the Human Metapneumovirus is like any other respiratory virus which causes common cold and it could cause flu-like symptoms in the young and the very old.

“There is news doing the rounds about a Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China. However, we have analysed the data of the respiratory outbreaks in the country (India) and there is no substantial increase in the December 2024 data and no cases which have been reported in large numbers from any of our institutions. There is nothing to be alarmed about the present situation,” said Dr Goel.

Dr Goel said, “In any case, during winters there is an increased outbreak of respiratory infections for which usually our hospitals are prepared with necessary supplies and beds.”