GUWAHATI: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has confirmed two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka on Monday, January 6, detected through routine surveillance for respiratory illnesses. However, there has been no unusual surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases across India, according to the ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP).
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The two detected HMPV cases are:
- A 3-month-old female infant was diagnosed with HMPV after being admitted to Baptist Hospital in Bengaluru with bronchopneumonia. She has since been discharged and is recovering.
- An 8-month-old male infant, who tested positive for HMPV on January 3, 2025, after being admitted to Baptist Hospital, Bengaluru, with bronchopneumonia. The infant is currently recovering.
Neither infant had any history of international travel. The Union Health Ministry continues to monitor the situation, and ICMR will track trends in HMPV circulation throughout the year. The World Health Organization (WHO) is providing updates on the situation in China to guide ongoing measures.
In response to concerns about the HMPV outbreak in China, Dr. Atul Goel, Director-General of Health Services, assured the public that there is no need for alarm. He stated that HMPV is similar to other respiratory viruses, causing mild cold-like symptoms in most cases, with flu-like symptoms in vulnerable groups such as the very young or elderly.
Dr. Goel also reassured that hospitals in India are prepared to handle the seasonal rise in respiratory infections, with sufficient supplies and beds available. He urged the public to follow basic hygiene practices and take general precautions to stay safe during the winter season.
