Tue Jan 07 09:01:00 UTC 2025: **India Reports First Cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)**
BENGALURU, INDIA—India has confirmed its first cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus. Three cases have been reported: two in Karnataka and one in Gujarat. The Karnataka cases involve a three-month-old and an eight-month-old infant, both hospitalized in Bengaluru. One infant was admitted for bronchopneumonia. While the virus is not considered as dangerous as COVID-19, health officials are monitoring the situation. Experts say HMPV, which spreads through respiratory droplets, causes symptoms similar to the common cold, but can lead to more severe respiratory illness in young children. Testing involves nasal or throat swabs, similar to COVID-19 tests. While the initial cases show no connection to international travel, health officials are urging vigilance and preventative measures such as hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.
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