Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Cases Emerge in India Amid China’s Surge

Amid a significant increase in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in China, particularly affecting children under 14, India has confirmed its initial cases of the virus. Reports indicate that two infants in Bengaluru—a three-month-old girl and a six-month-old boy—have tested positive for HMPV and are currently recovering. Additionally, a two-month-old boy in Ahmedabad has been diagnosed with the virus. HMPV, first identified in 2001, is a common respiratory pathogen that typically causes mild cold-like symptoms but can lead to severe respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or pneumonia, especially in young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Health experts in India advise maintaining standard precautions, including good hygiene practices and avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals, to mitigate the spread of the virus. While the situation warrants attention, authorities emphasize that there is no cause for alarm, as HMPV is neither new nor as severe as the COVID-19 virus.