The first cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) have been confirmed in the country, involving two infants aged 3 months and 8 months. The third such case has been detected in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The emergence of these cases in the same region where the COVID-19 outbreak was first identified five years ago has sparked public anxiety.
The cases were identified through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens, as part of ICMR’s ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses across the country, the Centre has said in an official statement.
Authorities in China have labeled HMPV as a typical “winter occurrence.” However, the heightened vulnerability of infants, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals to severe infections has intensified concerns. As the virus spreads, the need for heightened vigilance and preventive measures becomes increasingly urgent.See more: HMPV Symptoms: Infants older adults more vulnerable; common symptoms to watch out for
The ICMR emphasised that despite the detection of these two cases, there has been no significant increase in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases in the country.
In response to the growing cases of HMPV, the Delhi authorities have released an advisory. According to a statement, Dr Vandana Bagga, Director General of Health Services, convened a meeting with chief district medical officers and the state programme officer of IDSP on Sunday to discuss preparedness to address respiratory illnesses in Delhi.
Hospitals in Delhi have been instructed to promptly report Influenza-like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) cases through the IHIP Portal.
Strict isolation protocols and the use of universal precautions for suspected cases have been made mandatory.
Hospitals are required to maintain proper documentation of SARI cases and lab-confirmed influenza cases to ensure accurate monitoring.
They were directed to ensure the availability of paracetamol, antihistamines, bronchodilators, and cough syrups for treating mild cases, along with oxygen.
HMPV virus symptoms
The HMPV is a viral respiratory infection, which is prevalent in the global scenario, with India also affected. It was reported to have occurred in several other countries, yet there has not been any out-of-the-ordinary increase in infections in India. Typical symptoms of HMPV include fever, cough, nasal congestion, and fatigue. In severe cases, particularly in infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals, it can cause wheezing, shortness of breath, and rapid breathing.
HMPV spreads through air droplets released from the infected individual through coughing, sneezing or even breathing. Hence the best way to prevent contracting the infection is by avoiding contact with infected individuals. Regularly sanitizing the hand can keep the germs from entering the body.
HMPV is not rare or now
“HMPV, a respiratory virus, has symptoms like a common cold or flu. The virus is also not rare or new, and cases with HMPV appear every year. It causes respiratory infections like pneumonia, chronic asthma, or wheezing. With symptoms like a common cold, when an individual gets it for the first time, sometimes symptoms may be severe. Hence, children become prone to this illness faster and their immune system may get compromised especially in premature infants. One can get HMPV again; however, the symptoms can be milder. Symptoms can also include rash, shortness of breath, or sore throat,” said Dr. Nanda Kumar R., Consultant, General Medicine at SRM Global Hospitals, Chennai.
“Practicing good hand hygiene by washing hands regularly, wearing masks in crowded areas, especially children and older adults, and staying indoors or in isolation when infected with the virus. Avoid shaking hands and hugging. Sanitize your hands when you use public door handles or spaces,” he advised.
(With inputs from agencies)
