Daijiworld Media Network – Dibrugarh

Dibrugarh, Jan 10: Assam has reported its first case of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection this season, with a 10-month-old child testing positive for the virus, officials confirmed on Saturday. The infant, who presented with cold-like symptoms four days ago, is currently undergoing treatment at Assam Medical College and Hospital (AMCH) in Dibrugarh and is said to be in a stable condition.

Dr Dhrubajyoti Bhuyan, the superintendent of AMCH, stated that the child was admitted with cold-related symptoms, and the HMPV infection was confirmed after test results were received from the ICMR Regional Medical Research Centre (RMRC) in Lahowal.

"This was a routine test for influenza and flu-related cases, and the HMPV infection was detected. The child is stable, and there is no need to worry as it is a common virus," Dr. Bhuyan said.

Dr Biswajit Borkakoty, senior scientist at ICMR-RMRC, revealed that since 2014, the region has detected over 110 cases of HMPV, with this being the first case of the season. "HMPV is detected every year, and there is nothing unusual about this case," he added.

HMPV is a respiratory virus that typically causes mild cold-like symptoms. While most adults have immunity, it can be more severe in infants and individuals with compromised immune systems.

Elsewhere, other states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu have also reported recent cases of HMPV, with authorities monitoring the situation closely.