India has reported its first cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), involving two infants aged 3 and 8 months. A third case has been detected in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The emergence of these cases has raised public concerns, particularly as they come from the same region where the COVID-19 outbreak was first identified five years ago.
The cases were identified during routine surveillance for respiratory viral pathogens, as part of the Indian Council of Medical Research’s (ICMR) efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses nationwide, the Centre said in an official statement.
HMPV is typically seen during the winter season, according to Chinese health authorities. However, its potential to cause severe infections in vulnerable groups, including infants, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals, has heightened worries. The growing spread of the virus underscores the need for increased vigilance and preventive measures.
Despite these developments, the ICMR clarified that there has been no significant rise in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases in India.
In light of the situation, the Delhi government has issued an advisory. Dr. Vandana Bagga, Director General of Health Services, held a meeting on Sunday with chief district medical officers and the state programme officer of the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) to review preparedness for managing respiratory illnesses in the capital.