Tue Jan 07 12:20:40 UTC 2025: ## Eight Cases of HMPV Virus Detected in India: No Cause for Alarm, Says Government

**New Delhi, [Date]** – India has reported eight cases of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus causing flu-like symptoms, triggering increased surveillance but not widespread alarm. Two cases were reported in Nagpur, Maharashtra on Tuesday, involving a 13-year-old girl and a 7-year-old boy who experienced persistent cold and fever. Both recovered without hospitalization. Prior to this, two cases each were confirmed in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, and one each in West Bengal and Gujarat.

While mostly affecting children, particularly those under two, health officials emphasize that HMPV is not a new virus, first identified in 2001, and its current spread is not considered unusual for this flu season. The symptoms, similar to COVID-19 and common cold, include fever, cough, and runny nose. The virus spreads through airborne droplets and contact.

The central government has advised states to enhance surveillance for influenza-like illnesses (ILI) and severe acute respiratory issues (SARI), and to raise public awareness about HMPV. Health Minister JP Nadda stated that the government is closely monitoring the situation and that the virus poses no immediate threat. Experts concur that HMPV is not a novel virus and its spread is within expected seasonal patterns.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) are monitoring ILI and SARI cases, finding no unusual surge. As a precaution, ICMR will increase the number of labs testing for HMPV and maintain year-round surveillance.

Dr. Shashank Heda, founder and CEO of CovidRxExchange, cautioned against media hype, stating that the increase in hospitalizations is not solely due to HMPV but also other viral infections common during this season. He emphasized that the situation does not indicate a healthcare system failure, but rather necessitates ongoing monitoring and appropriate medical attention for infected individuals. The likelihood of a pandemic similar to the COVID-19 Delta variant is considered low.

While there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV, most cases resolve with supportive care at home. Severe cases may require oxygen therapy, IV fluids, and corticosteroids. The World Health Organization (WHO) is monitoring the situation and is expected to release a report soon. Indian health officials maintain that the current HMPV cases do not represent a serious public health threat.

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