Sun Jan 05 17:00:20 UTC 2025: ## India Monitors Rise in Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Cases in China

**New Delhi, [Date of Publication]** – The Indian government held a meeting of its Joint Monitoring Group on Saturday to discuss the rising number of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in China, a virus causing flu-like symptoms. While acknowledging the situation, the government stated that the increase is not unusual considering it’s flu season and that India is prepared to handle any surge in respiratory illnesses.

The meeting, chaired by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), included representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO), the Centre for Disease Control, and several other key medical institutions. The government emphasized that India’s robust surveillance system, utilizing data from the ICMR and IDSP, hasn’t detected any unusual increase in influenza-like illnesses (ILI) or severe acute respiratory illnesses (SARI).

As a precautionary measure, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) will increase the number of labs testing for HMPV and will maintain year-round surveillance. HMPV, an RNA virus causing symptoms similar to COVID-19, primarily affects young children, particularly those under two years of age. While the virus has been known since 2001, it is more prevalent during winter months.

Although social media posts claim China has declared emergencies in several areas due to a surge in HMPV cases, this has not been officially confirmed by the Chinese government. Reports indicate that individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions are at higher risk. China is reportedly testing a new surveillance system to manage the outbreak.

Dr. Atul Goel, Director of DGHS, downplayed concerns, stating that while the HMPV outbreak in China is serious, in India, HMPV is a common respiratory virus typically causing mild cold or flu-like symptoms. He stressed that India’s healthcare facilities are well-equipped to handle any potential increase in cases. The government reiterated its commitment to monitoring the situation closely and receiving regular updates from the WHO.

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