Thu Jan 09 16:24:39 UTC 2025: **India and China See Rise in Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Cases, But WHO Says No Cause for Alarm**

NEW DELHI/BEIJING – A rise in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in India and China has prompted increased surveillance by several state governments, but health officials are stressing that the situation is not an emergency. At least ten HMPV cases have been reported in India since January 7th, primarily in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. While the increase in cases has raised concerns, particularly following reports of a surge in respiratory illnesses in China, health experts are emphasizing that HMPV is not a new virus and generally causes mild, cold-like symptoms.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that the increase in respiratory infections, including HMPV, is typical for the winter season in the Northern Hemisphere. The WHO recommends standard precautions such as handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and wearing masks in crowded spaces to mitigate the spread of respiratory illnesses. Individuals with severe symptoms are urged to seek medical attention.

India’s Health Minister JP Nadda has reassured the public, stating that HMPV is not a cause for major concern. Similar statements have been made by health officials in Maharashtra and Jammu and Kashmir. The WHO’s Margaret Harris echoed this sentiment, noting that China’s increase in respiratory infections is seasonal and expected. Experts also point out that unlike the novel coronavirus, HMPV has been circulating for decades, meaning a degree of population immunity already exists.

While several Indian states have formed committees to monitor the situation and issue guidelines, prominent scientists have questioned the significance of tracking precise HMPV case numbers in India. The focus, instead, is on promoting general respiratory hygiene practices to manage the seasonal increase in respiratory illnesses.

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