Amid growing concerns over the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has confirmed that the virus is already in circulation globally, including in India. The top medical body emphasized that India is well-equipped to handle any potential increase in respiratory illnesses associated with HMPV.
The ICMR’s statement follows the detection of two HMPV cases in Bengaluru, involving a three-month-old infant who has been discharged and an eight-month-old infant who is recovering. The health department clarified that the affected infants and their families had no recent travel history, ruling out exposure from other regions or countries. Both cases were identified through routine surveillance for respiratory viral pathogens.
ICMR Statement Highlights:
- HMPV is a globally circulating respiratory virus, and cases have been reported in various countries, including India.
- Current data from the ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) network shows no unusual surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases in the country.
- The Union Health Ministry and ICMR are actively monitoring trends in HMPV circulation through available surveillance channels.
Earlier Monitoring Measures:
The Centre recently convened a Joint Monitoring Group (JMG) with representatives from the World Health Organisation (WHO), National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and ICMR to assess the rise in HMPV cases globally. This follows reports of a surge in infections in China, which prompted increased vigilance.
HMPV, a respiratory virus, spreads through direct contact, contaminated surfaces, or respiratory droplets. While most cases result in mild flu-like symptoms, individuals with weakened immune systems, the elderly, and young children are at higher risk of severe illness.
