Infants aged 3 and 8 months: India’s first two HMPV cases detected in Karnataka

India has detected its first two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus, in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The cases were confirmed in a three-month-old female infant and an eight-month-old male infant. Both were diagnosed at Baptist Hospital, Bengaluru, with a history of bronchopneumonia. The three-month-old has since been discharged, while the eight-month-old remains under treatment and is reported to be recovering. These cases were identified through routine surveillance for respiratory pathogens as part of the Indian Council of Medical Research's (ICMR) ongoing monitoring of respiratory diseases.

HMPV is a known respiratory pathogen that primarily affects children under 11 years of age, causing illnesses such as bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and upper respiratory infections. The virus is part of the paramyxovirus family and is spread through respiratory droplets. It is prevalent globally, with cases reported in various countries, including India. HMPV is commonly detected during the flu season, typically in the winter and early spring months.

Both infants diagnosed with HMPV did not have a history of international travel, ruling out the possibility of foreign exposure. The ICMR and the Ministry of Health have assured that there has been no unusual surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases across India. Data from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) network has shown that the current number of ILI and SARI cases remains within the expected seasonal range, with no major fluctuations in hospital admissions.

The Ministry of Health has also emphasized that HMPV is part of the normal seasonal variation of respiratory illnesses. There has been no significant increase in the number of cases in the country, and the surveillance systems remain active. The ICMR is closely tracking trends in the circulation of HMPV, and the Health Ministry is expanding testing capabilities in laboratories nationwide to improve early detection and response.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has been providing timely updates on the situation in China, where a surge in HMPV cases has been reported, alongside other respiratory viruses such as influenza and COVID-19. The Indian government continues to monitor the situation globally and locally, with preparedness drills conducted to ensure the health system is equipped to handle potential increases in respiratory illnesses. India’s health infrastructure and surveillance mechanisms are prepared for emerging threats, with a focus on maintaining vigilance against any sudden changes in patterns of respiratory diseases.