Three cases of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), known to cause respiratory distress, have emerged in India—two in Bengaluru and one in Ahmedabad—amid rising concerns of the virus spreading, as China reports a surge in infections.

HMPV cases in Bengaluru and Ahmedabad

In Bengaluru, two infants, an eight-month-old boy and a three-month-old girl, have tested positive for HMPV. Neither child has a history of international travel. Authorities confirmed that the young patients, who previously had bronchopneumonia, are now recovering. The three-month-old has already been discharged, while the eight-month-old is expected to be released soon.

The HMPV was seen in a two-month-old child from Dungarpur in Rajasthan, who is being treated at a private hospital in Ahmedabad. The baby is said to be stable.

Government’s response to rising cases

The Karnataka government also issued an advisory for citizens to avoid crowded places in case they have flu-like symptoms and wear masks in public after it detected such cases. 

Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao assured the public that there is no cause for alarm. "This is an existing virus. It is not the first case. Certain category of people have respiratory problems due to the virus. The virus was first found in the Netherlands in 2001," Rao told reporters, reiterating that the virus was first identified in the Netherlands in 2001.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah added that the government will take all measures to stop the spread of HMPV; it has ensured that any measures to be initiated by the health minister would be undertaken promptly.

How can you protect yourself from HMPV?

The Karnataka government, to prevent the risk of HMPV, has outlined key measures on preventing the transmission of the disease:

  1. Cover your mouth and nose with a handkerchief or your elbow while coughing or sneezing.
  2. Wash your hands frequently with soap.
  3.  Avoid public places if you feel symptoms.
  4. Don't use tissues or handkerchiefs more than once.
  5. Avoid contact with infected persons.
  6. Don't share towels or linens.
  7. Reduce touching your face.
  8. Avoid spitting in public.
  9. Wear masks in crowded places.

Schools and hospitals on alert

A special advisory was issued to schools in Karnataka where the parents have been asked not to send children having even mild symptoms to school. The hospitals were directed to maintain appropriate case records on Severe Acute Respiratory Infection and confirmed influenza.

What is HMPV?

HMPV, often mistaken for a common cold, can cause more severe respiratory issues in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include cough, wheezing, runny nose, and sore throat. Although most cases are mild, severe cases require prompt medical attention.

Monitoring the global situation

The Union Health Ministry is keeping a close watch on China, where there has been a marked increase in HMPV-related respiratory illnesses. In its country, Indian health authorities have not reported any unusual spike in ILI or SARI cases.

"The recent preparedness drill across the country has demonstrated that India is ready to manage any potential increase in respiratory illnesses, with public health interventions ready to be deployed if necessary," the ministry stated.