A total of 16 cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) have been reported in India so far, with the first case emerging in Assam on Saturday. A 10-month-old child who is currently receiving treatment at Assam Medical College and Hospital (AMCH) in Dibrugarh has tested positive. The child's condition is stable after being admitted four days ago due to cold-like symptoms.
In addition to the Assam case, a three-year-old child in Puducherry has also tested positive for HMPV but has since recovered completely.
Gujarat leads the country with four reported cases of HMPV, followed by Maharashtra with three cases. Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have two cases each , while Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Assam, and West Bengal have one case each
In response to the rise in HMPV cases, states have increased vigilance. In Punjab, elderly people and children are advised to wear masks, and isolation wards are being established in hospitals in Gujarat. Haryana's health department has also been instructed to monitor HMPV cases closely.
Virus primarily affects small children
HMPV primarily affects small children, with symptoms resembling those of cold and COVID-19. The most vulnerable group includes children under the age of two. The Central Government has urged states to enhance surveillance of respiratory diseases, including 'Influenza Like Illness' and 'Severe Acute Respiratory Issues,' while promoting awareness about HMPV.
The central government has said that HMPV infections are more common in winter. Amid rising cases in China, the Government of India convened a meeting of the Joint Monitoring Group on January 4 to assess the situation. They reiterated that flu-like symptoms are typical during the winter months and assured that they are monitoring developments in China while remaining prepared to address any potential challenges.
Prakash Kumar Pandey
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