INDIA CONFIRMS FIRST HMPV CASE: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

India's first case of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been reported in Karnataka, where an eight-month-old baby boy tested positive for the virus at a private hospital in Bengaluru.

Karnataka’s Health Department has confirmed an 8-month-old baby tested positive for HMPV, with samples sent to NIV Pune for further verification. The initial test at Bengaluru’s Baptist Hospital also detected Human Rhinovirus/Enterovirus in the baby on January 3.

What is HMPV? Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a negative-sense, single-stranded RNA virus from the Pneumoviridae family and Metapneumovirus genus. Discovered in 2001 by Dutch researchers in children with unexplained respiratory infections, studies show it has been a global respiratory pathogen for over 60 years.

Symptoms of HMPV HMPV causes symptoms like cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, it may lead to bronchitis or pneumonia. The incubation period is 3–6 days, with illness duration varying based on severity but similar to other respiratory viruses.

Who is at risk of HMPV? Infants, children under five, older adults over 65, and individuals with weakened immunity or chronic respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD are at higher risk.

How Does it Spread? HMPV spreads via respiratory droplets, direct contact, and possibly airborne particles, causing symptoms from mild colds to severe breathing issues. Most contagious in late winter and early spring, the current rise aligns with peak respiratory illness season, alongside influenza, Mycoplasma, and COVID-19.

How to Prevent HMPV? To prevent HMPV and other viruses, wash hands regularly, avoid touching the face, and stay away from sick individuals. Cover your mouth when coughing, don't share utensils, and disinfect common surfaces.

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