Two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) have been detected in Bengaluru, raising concerns about respiratory illnesses in India. An eight-month-old child and another case were reported at Baptist Hospital in north Bengaluru, with neither patient having a history of international travel. The Karnataka Health Department confirmed the cases, emphasizing the need for vigilance. The outbreak comes amidst rising global attention on HMPV, particularly following its impact in China.
Two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), known to cause respiratory illnesses, have been identified in Bengaluru, according to reports on Monday. News 18 confirmed that an eight-month-old child tested positive for HMPV, while India Today stated that two cases were detected at Baptist Hospital in north Bengaluru. Neither patient has a history of international travel.
The Karnataka Health Department validated the medical tests conducted by the private hospital. “The reports have come from a private hospital, and we have no reason to doubt their tests. We don’t know what strain of the virus this is yet because we don’t have data on what the strain detected in China is,” sources told India Today.
Understanding HMPV
HMPV is a respiratory virus that can infect individuals of all ages but poses greater risks to young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. Symptoms often appear within 3 to 10 days after exposure and include flu-like signs such as cough, sore throat, runny nose, and breathing difficulties. Severe cases may lead to pneumonia or bronchitis.
Andhra Pradesh’s Public Health and Family Welfare Director, K. Padmavathi, highlighted that the disease is particularly severe among vulnerable groups. Recent outbreaks in China have drawn global attention, with India’s Ministry of Health noting the seasonal nature of HMPV infections.
“The reports suggest that the cause of the present surge is Influenza virus, RSV, and HMPV – the usual pathogens expected during the flu season,” said a statement from the Ministry of Health.
The Indian government has requested updates from the World Health Organization (WHO) and is monitoring the situation closely through various channels.
Precautions and Protocols
States such as Delhi have issued advisories to curb the potential spread of HMPV and other respiratory illnesses. Measures include:
- Enforcing strict isolation protocols for suspected cases.
- Ensuring the availability of essential medications like paracetamol, antihistamines, bronchodilators, and oxygen.
- Monitoring Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) and confirmed influenza cases.
“Children should not be sent to school during illness. Those with respiratory symptoms should definitely use masks. There is currently no cause for concern. We are monitoring the situation in China,” added a Delhi health official.
Meanwhile, the Telangana state government emphasized hygiene practices, such as washing hands for at least 20 seconds and covering the nose and mouth while coughing or sneezing. Officials noted that no cases of HMPV have been reported in the state.
In Andhra Pradesh, government hospitals have been directed to treat affected individuals, particularly children and the elderly, as there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV.
Government Measures and Monitoring
The Ministry of Health has announced plans to increase the number of laboratories capable of testing HMPV cases. Additionally, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) will monitor HMPV trends throughout the year.
With the ongoing flu season and rising respiratory illnesses globally, authorities continue to stress preventive measures. While the current situation in India does not warrant immediate alarm, public health officials are urging individuals to remain vigilant.
The detection of HMPV cases in Bengaluru highlights the importance of monitoring respiratory illnesses during the flu season. With the government enhancing laboratory capabilities and issuing advisories, preventive measures remain the best defense. Are we prepared to tackle the challenges of HMPV and other respiratory viruses this season? Follow Birdseyenews.com for more such news updates.
