India Confirms Three HMPV Cases: Health Ministry Shares Symptoms and Prevention Tips

The health department has issued an advisory directing the district administration to remain vigilant and enhance surveillance of patients exhibiting cold and cough symptoms.

Three cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) have been reported in India, as China grapples with a surge in respiratory illnesses. Bengaluru recorded the first two cases: an eight-month-old infant who is currently recovering in a hospital and a three-month-old baby who has been discharged. A third case, involving a two-month-old infant, has been detected in Ahmedabad.

Meanwhile, China is experiencing an HMPV outbreak, with reports of hospitals overwhelmed by patients suffering from respiratory illnesses. Social media posts indicate that multiple viruses, including influenza A, HMPV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and COVID-19, are circulating in the country.

What is HMPV?

First identified in 2001, HMPV is a respiratory virus causing flu-like symptoms. It can affect individuals of all ages but poses a higher risk to:

• Young children (below 5 years)
• Older adults
• People with weakened immune systems

Symptoms of HMPV

Symptoms typically appear 3-6 days after exposure and include:

• Cough
• Fever
• Nasal congestion
• Shortness of breath
• Sore throat

Severe cases may require hospitalization. Worsening symptoms like wheezing, persistent cough, and difficulty breathing necessitate immediate medical attention.

Health Department Advisory

The Health Department Director, Dr Nitin Ambadekar, said, “Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) causes respiratory infections. This virus was first detected in the Netherlands in 2001. It is a common respiratory virus that causes infections in the upper respiratory tract. It is a seasonal epidemic and occurs in winter and early summer, like the flu. So far, no case of HMPV has been found in the state.”

With the increased risk of HMPV, the Health Department has analyzed the respiratory infection statistics in the state. There was no increase in respiratory infections in the state in December 2024 compared to 2023. As a precautionary measure, the Health Department has urged citizens to take steps to protect themselves from respiratory infections. The advisory outlines the following dos and don’ts:

Dos:

• Cover your mouth and nose with a handkerchief or tissue paper when coughing or sneezing.
• Wash hands frequently with soap, water, or an alcohol-based sanitizer.
• Stay away from public places if you have a fever, cough, or sneeze.
• Drink plenty of water and eat a nutritious diet.
• Maintain adequate ventilation in all areas to reduce infection.

Don’ts:

• Avoid shaking hands.
• Refrain from reusing tissue paper or handkerchiefs.
• Avoid close contact with sick individuals.
• Do not frequently touch your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Avoid spitting in public places.
• Do not take medicines without a doctor’s advice.

Treatment and Vaccination

Currently, there is no vaccine for HMPV. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms.

Differentiating HMPV from the Common Cold

HMPV symptoms can mimic those of a common cold, but the illness may be more severe, especially during the first infection. Repeated infections tend to result in milder symptoms.

Stay vigilant and follow precautions to protect yourself and others from HMPV.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider if you suspect you or someone else may have symptoms of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) or any other illness. Follow the guidance of your healthcare professional for proper care and treatment.