Mon Jan 06 15:54:43 UTC 2025: ## Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) Cases Rise in India, Sparking Health Concerns

**New Delhi, India** – A surge in human metapneumovirus (hMPV) cases in China has raised concerns in India, where five cases have been confirmed. The virus, which causes cold-like symptoms and can lead to more severe respiratory illnesses in infants and the elderly, has been detected in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat.

Two cases were initially reported in Karnataka, involving a three-month-old girl and an eight-month-old boy, both previously diagnosed with bronchopneumonia. Both children have since recovered. In Tamil Nadu, two more cases were confirmed, one in Chennai and another in Salem; both patients are reportedly stable. A two-month-old child in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, is the latest confirmed case, presenting with cold and fever symptoms.

Following the increase in cases, several state governments have issued advisories. Gujarat’s health department urged citizens to practice respiratory hygiene, avoid public places if unwell, and seek medical attention for respiratory issues. Delhi’s health minister has directed hospitals to be prepared for a potential increase in respiratory illnesses, and health officials have held meetings to discuss preparedness. Maharashtra’s health department plans a meeting to address concerns, while Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Telangana health officials have stated no cases have been reported in their states and are closely monitoring the situation.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is actively monitoring hMPV prevalence nationwide, and the central health ministry assures there has been no unusual increase in Influenza-like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) cases. While acknowledging the virus’s potential to cause flu-like symptoms, particularly in the very young and elderly, health officials stress there is no need for panic. They advise individuals to maintain good respiratory hygiene and seek prompt medical attention if needed. hMPV, first discovered in 2001, is part of the Pneumoviridae family along with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and is known to mainly affect the respiratory system.

Despite the rising cases, officials across multiple states emphasize that the situation is under control and urge citizens to maintain vigilance and follow standard respiratory hygiene practices to prevent the spread of the virus.

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