First Case of HMPV Detected in 8-Month-Old Baby in Bengaluru; Karnataka to Convene Emergency Meeting
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Bengaluru, Jan 6 (NationPress) India has reported its inaugural case of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), which is currently linked to an outbreak in China, in an 8-month-old infant in Bengaluru, Karnataka, as confirmed by the state health department on Monday.
The infant, who has no travel history, is receiving treatment at a private hospital. The diagnosis of HMPV was validated through a blood test.
Karnataka's Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao is scheduled to hold an emergency meeting with health officials today at 12:30 PM to evaluate precautionary strategies.
This development follows reports of an HMPV outbreak in China, although the Chinese authorities have downplayed it as a typical winter phenomenon.
Sources within the health department have expressed concern regarding this situation and are actively collecting data on how the virus is spreading throughout the state.
Officials have stressed that there is no need for public alarm concerning the HMPV infection. While the virus may be present in India, it remains unclear whether it has undergone mutations.
Authorities indicated uncertainty regarding whether the virus identified in Bengaluru represents a common strain of HMPV or a mutated variant reported in China.
The state health department has communicated the details of this case to the Union Health Ministry and maintains regular contact with central officials.
On Sunday, the Karnataka government released an advisory outlining precautions to mitigate the risk associated with the spread of HMPV.
"At this moment, there is no cause for alarm regarding the spread of HMPV. The Health Department is vigilantly monitoring the situation in collaboration with the Director of the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare," it stated.
"HMPV behaves similarly to other respiratory viruses, generating common cold and flu-like symptoms during the winter months, particularly in vulnerable age groups such as children and the elderly," it added.
The Karnataka Department of Health and Family Welfare has also conducted an analysis of respiratory infection data, including cases of common cold, ILI (Influenza-Like Illness), and SARI (Severe Acute Respiratory Infections) within the state. They found no significant rise in cases in December 2024 compared to the previous year.
The department is urging citizens to adhere to recommended precautions to safeguard their health and prevent the spread of infections.
Individuals are advised to cover their mouth and nose with a handkerchief or tissue when coughing or sneezing; wash hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based sanitizers; avoid crowded places; and refrain from public outings while experiencing fever, cough, or sneezing.
It is recommended to ensure adequate ventilation with outdoor air in all environments to minimize transmission. People are also encouraged to remain at home and limit contact with others if they are unwell, and to drink plenty of water while consuming nutritious foods.
Furthermore, individuals are advised against reusing tissue paper and handkerchiefs; having close contact with sick individuals; sharing towels, linens, etc.; frequently touching their eyes, nose, and mouth; spitting in public areas; and self-medicating without consulting a physician.
