HMPV in India: Nagpur Reports Two New Cases, Total Rises to Seven Nationwide

Ziya Khan

2 days ago

Amid a spike in respiratory illnesses across China, India has reported two new cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Nagpur, raising the country’s total count to seven confirmed cases. The two affected children, aged seven and thirteen, tested positive for HMPV at a private hospital, both presenting symptoms of cough and fever. The distribution of the seven cases in India includes two each from Bengaluru, Nagpur, and Tamil Nadu, with one additional case identified in Ahmedabad.

Understanding HMPV

Human Metapneumovirus is a globally recognized respiratory virus that has recently garnered increased attention due to an outbreak reported in China. This viral pathogen is known to cause respiratory infections in individuals of all age groups, making it a significant public health concern.

Government Response

Union Health Minister JP Nadda addressed the situation on Monday, clarifying that HMPV is not a new virus; it was first identified in 2001 and has been circulating worldwide for many years. Nadda explained that HMPV spreads through respiratory droplets and is more prevalent during the winter and early spring months.He noted, “In light of recent reports regarding cases of HMPV in China, the Health Ministry, ICMR, and National Centre for Disease Control are closely monitoring the situation both in China and neighboring countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) is also aware of the situation and will provide a report shortly.”Furthermore, Nadda reassured the public that the data available on respiratory viruses from the ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme indicates no surge in common respiratory virus pathogens in India at this time.