Sat Jan 04 13:32:54 UTC 2025: ## India Monitors China’s HMPV Outbreak, Reports No Spike in Cases

**NEW DELHI, January 4, 2025** – The Indian Union Health Ministry announced today that it is closely monitoring the surge in Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases reported in China, particularly among children under 14. While China has seen a significant increase in respiratory illnesses, including HMPV, India has not experienced a corresponding rise in winter respiratory diseases, the Ministry stated.

Director-General of Health Services, Dr. Atul Goel, confirmed that no HMPV cases have been reported in India. He emphasized that HMPV, while causing flu-like symptoms, is similar to other common winter respiratory viruses and that existing healthcare infrastructure is well-equipped to handle such cases. He reassured the public that there is currently no cause for alarm and that no special medications are needed.

The Ministry’s National Centre for Disease Control is actively tracking respiratory and influenza cases nationwide and is collaborating with international health organizations. Although HMPV symptoms—cough, fever, shortness of breath—can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia, Dr. Goel stressed that the virus is treatable with standard care.

HMPV, discovered in 2001, spreads through respiratory droplets and close contact. While it primarily affects young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the U.S. notes that it affects people of all ages. Similar outbreaks occurred in the U.S., Canada, and Europe in 2011-12. The virus typically circulates during winter and spring months.

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