Mon Jan 06 13:30:48 IST 2025: ## Two Cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Confirmed in Karnataka
**Bengaluru, India –** The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has confirmed two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka, sparking increased public interest in the virus. Both cases involve infants in Bengaluru: an eight-month-old boy and a three-month-old girl who has since recovered. Neither infant had recent travel history, although the girl was hospitalized with bronchopneumonia.
While HMPV is known to cause respiratory illness, particularly in children, and is present globally (accounting for approximately 0.7% of flu cases), Karnataka health officials are awaiting further information on the specific strain involved. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao stated that while this isn’t India’s first HMPV case, the possibility of a new strain warrants further investigation.
The confirmation follows recent social media reports of a surge in respiratory illnesses, including HMPV, in China. This has led to a significant increase in online searches for information about HMPV symptoms, particularly in Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh. HMPV is spread through close contact and typically causes symptoms like cough, fever, and runny nose. Severe cases may involve wheezing and shortness of breath.
Although the ICMR’s findings have raised concerns, health officials emphasize the need for calm and further investigation to fully understand the situation. Surveillance for respiratory illnesses continues nationwide.
First Piper 