Ministry of Health confirms two cases of HMPV infection: What is HMPV, its symptoms and why there is no cause for alarm

The Indian government has issued a press note following media reports of some Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases detected in Karnataka. Amid concerns over the HMPV outbreak in China, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has reassured the public that there is no cause for alarm.

The official X account of the Ministry of Health has issued an update in the wake of HMPV cases detected in India. The Ministry of Health has quoted Dr Atul Goel, Director-General of Health Services, who has said there is no need to panic and advised people to follow basic hygiene practices and take general precautions to stay safe during the winter season.

#HealthForAll

Update on #HMPV

.@ICMRDELHI Detects Two Cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka through routine surveillance

Surveillance System Robust, No Unusual Surge in ILI or SARI cases in the countryhttps://t.co/uXIgltmOdE

— Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) January 6, 2025

A press release by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said that the HMPV is already prevalent worldwide, including in India, with cases of respiratory illnesses linked to the virus reported in several countries. Additionally, according to the latest data from ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), there has been no significant increase in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases across the country.

Two cases of HMPV were detected both of which involved infants treated for bronchopneumonia at Baptist Hospital, Bengaluru, with one discharged and the other recovering. Neither had an international travel history, the press release stated.

The Union Health Ministry is closely observing the situation using all available surveillance systems, while ICMR will maintain year-round monitoring of HMPV circulation trends. The World Health Organization (WHO) is providing regular updates on the situation in China to support ongoing response efforts. A recent nationwide preparedness drill demonstrated that India is well-prepared to manage any potential rise in respiratory illnesses, with public health measures ready for swift deployment if required.

What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) and what are its symptoms?

HMPV is an RNA virus from the Metapneumovirus genus, first identified in 2001. Research suggests it has been circulating for over 60 years and is now recognized as a common respiratory pathogen globally. It spreads via respiratory droplets, close contact with infected individuals, or contaminated surfaces. 

The Chinese CDC reports an infection period of 3–5 days. While it can occur year-round, the virus is most prevalent in winter and spring. Notably, HMPV does not generate a robust immune response, allowing for reinfection.

HMPV symptoms are similar to those of the common cold and coronavirus, including cough, fever, and cold-like signs. Officials advise wearing masks and frequent handwashing to curb the spread.

Among those most vulnerable to the virus are children and the elderly. Officials recommend wearing masks, avoiding crowded spaces, and maintaining hygiene to reduce infection risks. 

Also, it is worth noting that though it is quite prevalent, there is no vaccine for HMPV, and its symptoms are often mistaken for those of a common cold.