Two Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases have been verified by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in Karnataka. These cases were found during regular monitoring for respiratory viral diseases.

These instances were found as part of ICMR’s continuous efforts to monitor and manage respiratory infections nationwide, according to a Ministry of Health announcement.

The respiratory virus known as HMPV is already widespread around the world, including in India. In many nations, it has been linked to respiratory ailments; nevertheless, India has not seen an extraordinary increase in instances.

Despite the identification of these two instances, the ICMR stressed that the number of cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) and Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) in the nation has not significantly increased.

A 3-month-old girl who was taken to Baptist Hospital in Bengaluru and later confirmed with HMPV is one of the afflicted patients. She was released after treatment for a history of bronchopneumonia.

In the second instance, an 8-month-old boy with a history of bronchopneumonia was admitted to Baptist Hospital in Bengaluru and tested positive for HMPV on January 3, 2025.

This baby is in stable condition and is still recuperating. Since neither baby had ever been outside, it is likely that the instances are domestic in nature and unrelated to epidemics elsewhere.

Using every monitoring avenue at its disposal, the Union Health Ministry is still keeping an eye on the issue. Throughout the year, the ICMR will also monitor trends in HMPV circulation. To help guide public health initiatives, the World Health Organization (WHO) has been regularly updating its members on the situation in China.

In the meanwhile, Kerala Health Minister Veena George recommended pregnant women and the elderly to wear masks in response to recent reports of a Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) epidemic in China, but she also said there is now no need to fear.

In light of the recent reports of a significant viral fever and pneumonia epidemic in China, there are a few things that everyone should be aware of. At this moment, no viruses that may cause a pandemic or swiftly spread to other parts of China have been reported, George added.

She went on to say that we should exercise caution since there are Malayalis all around the globe and foreigners from all over the world, including China, are visiting our nation.

“Based on the knowledge that is currently available, China’s terrifying respiratory diseases may be caused by three different kinds of viruses. These include influenza A virus infections, some Covid 19 variations, and human metapneumovirus (HMPV). None of them have been shown to have genetic mutations that may cause a pandemic. But, as was already said, we must exercise caution,” she said.

According to the Health Minister, children and the elderly should exercise more caution, as should individuals with other severe diseases and those undergoing palliative care, since infections, such as the human metapneumonia virus, are more likely to damage them.

“When unwell, children shouldn’t be sent to school. Masks are unquestionably recommended for those with respiratory issues. Right now, there’s nothing to worry about. We’re keeping an eye on things in China,” she said.

A frequent respiratory virus that causes upper respiratory infections is the human metapneumovirus (HMPV).