Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Apr 18: Maharashtra has reported its first case of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) this year, with a seven-month-old boy from Washim testing positive for the infection, health officials said.

Initially suspected to have an influenza-like illness, the infection was later confirmed as HMPV through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests conducted on March 30.

The infant was admitted to AIIMS Nagpur and has since been discharged after successful treatment, said Dr Raju Sule, state surveillance officer, public health department.

Officials indicated that this is likely the first confirmed case in the state this year, although a few sporadic suspected cases had been reported earlier.

Dr Sule urged citizens not to panic, stating that the infection is generally mild and there is no outbreak in the state.

HMPV is a respiratory virus first identified in the Netherlands in 2001 and detected in India in 2003. It can cause illnesses ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory conditions such as pneumonia and bronchitis, particularly in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immunity.

Following the detection, health authorities traced close contacts of the infant and tested five family members, all of whom returned negative results, indicating no immediate spread.

Dr Sandeep Sangale, joint director of health services, said the symptoms are similar to a common cold and there is no cause for concern.

He added that the state government is closely monitoring the situation through the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), with no unusual rise in influenza-like illness or severe acute respiratory infection cases reported so far.