Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Jan 7: The detection of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections in infants across Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat has sparked public concern, but experts and authorities emphasize there is no need to panic. While the virus primarily affects children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immunity, officials have reiterated that it is not a new pathogen and cases remain manageable with symptomatic care.

Understanding HMPV and its symptoms

HMPV, often compared to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), manifests as a respiratory illness with symptoms such as fever, nasal congestion, runny nose, and cough. In severe cases, it may lead to wheezing, rapid breathing, or pneumonia, especially in infants and immunocompromised individuals.

Symptoms in children:

• Fever, nasal congestion, and cough
• Severe cases may cause bronchiolitis or pneumonia
• Difficulty breathing and chest retractions

Symptoms in adults:

• Sore throat, cough, nasal congestion, and fatigue
• Symptoms are typically mild but can worsen in older adults or those with chronic conditions.

HMPV cases reported in India

Five infants have tested positive for HMPV across Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat:

• Tamil Nadu: Two cases reported in Chennai and Salem. Both patients are stable and under observation, according to the state's health department.
• Gujarat: A two-month-old from Rajasthan tested positive after being referred to Ahmedabad. The child has recovered and is ready for discharge.
• Karnataka: Two infants with a history of bronchopneumonia tested positive in Bengaluru’s Baptist Hospital. Both are now recovering.

Government and expert responses

Tamil Nadu’s additional chief secretary of health stated that HMPV infections are not new and are self-limiting, resolving with rest and hydration. Similarly, Odisha’s public health director, Nilakantha Mishra, assured preparedness to handle any situation. Maharashtra health minister Prakash Abitkar urged citizens to follow government-issued guidelines.

Former WHO chief scientist, Dr Soumya Swaminathan, addressed concerns on social media, stating:

"HMPV is a known virus causing mild respiratory infections. Rather than panicking, follow precautions like wearing masks, hand hygiene, and avoiding crowds when symptomatic."

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) confirmed that HMPV accounts for approximately 3% of respiratory cases, alongside other viruses like Influenza A and B, SARS-CoV-2, and RSV.
No unusual surge or deaths in india

According to the Centre, there has been no unusual spike in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases. Additionally, no deaths linked to HMPV have been reported in India.

Can HMPV trigger a pandemic?

Health authorities, including the WHO and ICMR, stress that HMPV is not a pandemic threat. Preventive measures such as wearing masks, maintaining hand hygiene, and consulting a doctor in case of severe symptoms are key to managing the virus.

As states continue monitoring the situation, health experts assure that India is well-prepared to handle any potential rise in HMPV cases.