Two cases of Human Metapneumovirus detected in Karnataka; ICMR assures no cause for alarm
HMPV, a respiratory virus already in circulation globally, including in India, has been linked to respiratory illnesses in various countries.
NATIONAL
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has identified two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka through routine surveillance, as part of its ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses across the country. The Union Health Ministry confirmed that there is no unusual surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases nationwide, emphasizing that the surveillance system remains robust.
HMPV, a respiratory virus already in circulation globally, including in India, has been linked to respiratory illnesses in various countries. The detected cases involve two infants admitted to Bengaluru's Baptist Hospital with a history of bronchopneumonia.
The first case is a 3-month-old female infant diagnosed with HMPV and later discharged after recovery. The second case involves an 8-month-old male infant who tested positive for HMPV on January 3, 2025. The child is currently recovering. Neither of the patients has a history of international travel.
The Union Health Ministry is closely monitoring the situation through multiple surveillance systems. “ICMR continues to track HMPV trends across the year, and no immediate public health threat has been identified,” a ministry spokesperson stated.
Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) is keeping tabs on the HMPV situation, including recent developments in China. Domestically, a preparedness drill conducted nationwide demonstrated India's readiness to address any rise in respiratory illnesses, ensuring timely public health interventions if necessary.