HMPV cases reported across India: Mumbai reports first case, advisory issued across states

Centre steps up HMPV vigil but cautions against panic

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases have been reported in children across multiple states in India, including Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Nagpur, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra. While the virus generally causes mild illness in most adults, it poses a higher risk to vulnerable groups such as children under 5 years, adults over 60 years, and individuals with compromised immunity.

Rising cases across India

The latest case of HMPV was reported at Hiranandani Hospital in Mumbai’s Powai, where a six-month-old baby tested positive, bringing Maharashtra’s tally to three. Nationwide, a total of 11 cases have been reported:

• Bengaluru: 2 cases
• Gujarat: 1 case
• Chennai: 2 cases
• Kolkata: 3 cases
• Maharashtra: 3 cases

Expert insights on HMPV

Dr. Vikas Mittal, Director and Pulmonologist at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, highlighted the virus’s impact on vulnerable groups.

• In high-risk cases, HMPV can lead to severe respiratory complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia, sometimes requiring hospitalization and oxygen therapy.
• Despite this, most patients recover with supportive treatment, and the virus’s fatality rate remains low compared to other respiratory illnesses.

Dr. Mittal noted that there is currently no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV. Treatment is primarily symptomatic, focusing on rest, hydration, and fever management. Antibiotics are only prescribed if a secondary bacterial infection is present. Severe cases may require hospitalization with oxygen supplementation or respiratory support.

Prevention and monitoring

Given the lack of specific treatment, prevention strategies are key:

• Practice good hygiene and respiratory etiquette.
• Wear masks in crowded places.
• Avoid crowded areas to curb infection spread.

Former AIIMS Director Dr. Randeep Guleria added, “HMPV is not a new virus. It is self-limiting and usually mild, but in infants, the elderly, or those with comorbidities, it can lead to pneumonia and hospitalization. Symptomatic treatment, hydration, and good nutrition are essential.”

Health experts suggest that a regular flu shot or three doses of the COVID-19 vaccine may help boost immunity against HMPV.

Government assurances

Union Health Minister J P Nadda addressed public concerns, assuring that HMPV is not a new virus and there is no need for alarm. “We are closely monitoring the situation,” he said. Similarly, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak emphasized the government’s proactive approach to managing the situation, urging citizens to follow official guidelines.

The Patna administration has also issued an appeal for residents to remain calm and adhere to preventive measures outlined by the Central and Bihar governments.

Indonesia, Vietnam, and other nations on edge as HMPV cases surge in China

China’s winter illness season is less severe compared to the year before, according to data from its health authority. But the proliferation of a long-standing though little-known pathogen called human metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been raising alarm both at home and in other countries. Cases of hMPV are on a steady rise and the pathogen has been identified as a main cause of respiratory illness and hospitalizations this winter, said the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention. While not a new virus, HMPV appears to also be vexing governments across the region, with India, Malaysia, and Hong Kong reporting cases in recent days.

Conclusion

While HMPV poses a risk to vulnerable populations, health experts agree that the virus is largely manageable with proper care and preventive measures. Continuous monitoring and public adherence to guidelines will be critical in mitigating its spread.

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