After two infants- aged eight and three months, were detected with the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) virus in Bengaluru, the Health Ministry says it is fully prepared to manage the respiratory illness with surveillance mechanisms indicating there are no unusual surges in cases. Downplaying the current situation, the Indian Council of Medical Research has suggested there is no need for concern, and the current situation is being monitored. “It is emphasized that HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India, and cases of respiratory illnesses associated with HMPV have been reported in various countries," ICMR said in a statement.
News reports, however, say it was not clear whether this was the same strain of HMPV causing a spike in China. According to the medical body, it is important to note that the affected patients did not have any history of international travel. What is HMPV? According to experts, the Human metapneumovirus is a virus that usually causes symptoms similar to the common cold and often leads to upper respiratory infection, but can sometimes also cause lower respiratory infections like pneumonia, asthma flare-ups, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) worse.
Doctors say HMPV infections are more common in the winter and early spring. While most of the affected get HMPV before they turn 5 years old, you can also get it again – even though the symptoms are usually mild after your first infection. Studies estimate that around 10-12 per .
