3 HMPV virus cases reported in India, experts say no need to panic

Three cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) were reported in India- two in Karnataka and one in Gujarat - health officials have been emphasizing that there is no need to panic as the it is not a new pathogen, adding that regular flu shots or even the three Covid vaccine doses  doses makes one immune to this infection. On Monday, a 3-month-old baby who has been discharged and an 8-month-old who is recovering at a hospital in Bengaluru - and a 2-month-old in Ahmedabad. This marks the first reported cases of HMPV in India. "Both cases were identified through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens, as part of ICMR's ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses across the country. HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India, and cases of respiratory illnesses associated with HMPV have been reported in various countries," the Centre said in a statement on the two Bengaluru cases. Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah said in Bengaluru that the HMP virus has been detected in Bengaluru, with two cases reported in children. The government will take all necessary steps to address it, he said.

Bengaluru, Karnataka: CM Siddaramaiah says, "The HMP virus has been detected in Bengaluru, with two cases reported in children. Although it is said to not be dangerous, I have instructed the Health Ministry to take all necessary precautionary measures to prevent its spread.… pic.twitter.com/q5PGaj3oWE

— IANS (@ians_india) January 6, 2025

The health ministry said that HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India, and cases of respiratory illnesses associated with it have been reported in various countries.

The Directorate of Medical Education, Karnataka issues advisory titled 'Do Not Panic, Be Aware', after two cases of HMPV were reported in Bengaluru.#hmpvvirus pic.twitter.com/BDPTRdEU8c

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 6, 2025

(State Correspondent)