Two HMPV Cases Reported in Nagpur: Children Recover with Outpatient Care

New Delhi/Nagpur, 7th January 2025: Seven cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection have been reported in children across India, with two cases each in Bengaluru, Nagpur, and Tamil Nadu, and one in Ahmedabad. These cases come amid a rise in respiratory illnesses in neighboring China. However, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda has reassured the public, stating that the situation is under control and unlikely to escalate into a Covid-like outbreak.

“HMPV is not a new virus; it was first discovered in 2001 and has been circulating globally for years,” Nadda said, emphasizing that the virus rarely causes severe illness. “Timely intervention and basic care are often enough to prevent complications,” he added.

The Health Ministry, in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), is closely monitoring developments in China and other neighboring nations. “We are in regular communication with the World Health Organization (WHO) and expect to receive an updated report soon,” Nadda stated.

The ICMR has confirmed two HMPV cases in Bengaluru at the Bangalore Baptist Hospital. A three-month-old girl, admitted in December with fever and cold, tested positive for HMPV. She has since recovered and been discharged. The second case, detected on January 3, involves an eight-month-old boy admitted with fever following an injury. He tested positive for both HMPV and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and is currently under treatment. Neither child had a history of international travel, suggesting local transmission.

In Ahmedabad, a two-month-old baby from Dungarpur, Rajasthan, was admitted on December 24 with respiratory symptoms. HMPV was detected two days later. Dr. Bhavin Solanki from the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation confirmed that the case was reported late but handled promptly, with the patient isolated and treated effectively.

Nagpur reported two cases involving a seven-year-old and a 13-year-old, both of whom initially received treatment for suspected H1N1 (swine flu). Subsequent PCR tests confirmed HMPV on January 3. Both children recovered through outpatient care.

Tamil Nadu Health Secretary Supriya Sahu revealed that two active cases were reported in Chennai and Salem. “Both patients are in stable condition. HMPV infections are typically mild and resolve with symptomatic treatment, including adequate hydration and rest,” she explained.

Union Health Minister Nadda reiterated that HMPV spreads via respiratory droplets and can infect individuals of all age groups. “The virus is most active during winter and early spring. However, our health systems and surveillance networks are fully prepared to handle any challenges. There is no cause for alarm,” he assured.

ICMR Chair for Disease Elimination, Dr. Rajni Kant, highlighted the presence of HMPV in India over the years. “In 2022, the ICMR’s Regional Medical Research Centre in Gorakhpur tested respiratory pathogens in 100 under-five children at BRD Medical College. Four percent of the samples tested positive for HMPV,” he revealed.

Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao downplayed fears of a link to China’s respiratory illness surge. “This appears to be a localized strain of HMPV. Referring to any recent case as the ‘first’ is misleading. There’s no need to press the panic button,” he said.

According to the ICMR and Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), there has been no unusual increase in influenza-like illness cases across India. Experts continue to emphasize vigilance, timely medical intervention, and public awareness to manage the situation effectively.