HMPV Virus: Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a virus similar to the coronavirus, has made its way to India from China, causing concern among the public. This development has reignited fears reminiscent of the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, six cases have been confirmed in India, including two in Karnataka involving a three-month-old girl and an eight-month-old child. Additionally, two cases have been reported in Tamil Nadu, two in Nagpur, Maharashtra, and a two-month-old child in Ahmedabad has also tested positive for HMPV.
State governments also taking action
Investigations are ongoing to determine how these children contracted the virus. In response, India is preparing to address the HMPV threat, with state governments also taking action. The Delhi government has issued an advisory, and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has convened a meeting today. Maharashtra has also reported two HMPV cases in Nagpur, affecting children, with a seven-year-old boy and a thirteen-year-old girl testing positive in a private hospital on January 3.
Who can be more vulnerable?
While HMPV can affect individuals of all ages, children under five and seniors over 65 are particularly vulnerable, as are those with compromised immune systems, asthma, or other respiratory conditions. Preventive measures such as handwashing, mask-wearing, and timely testing have been emphasized. HMPV shares several characteristics with COVID-19, including its respiratory impact and heightened risk for the elderly and immunocompromised individuals, along with similar symptoms.
🚨 Important Note On HMPV Virus.
HMPV is not a deadly virus.
Most people get HMPV before they turn 5.symptoms:
Cough.
Fever.
Runny or stuffy nose.
Sore throat.
Wheezing.
Shortness of breath (dyspnea).
Rash.While the virus typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms, it can…
— Indian Tech & Infra (@IndianTechGuide) January 6, 2025
Union Health Minister JP Nadda has reassured the public that there is no need for alarm regarding the HMPV virus, stating that it is not as perilous as some social media narratives suggest. HMPV is not a new virus. It has been spreading all over the world for many years. We are closely monitoring the situation. We can say that there should be no reason to worry. ICMR has also told people that the HMPV virus is not new. It has already been present all over the world including India. So there is no need to panic. People should just take precautions.