HMPV not a new virus, identified in 2001: Health Minister as 3 cases reported in India

Edited and posted by Al Ngullie
January 7,2025 04:08 PM
HORNBILL TV

After three cases of HMPV were reported in India, Union Health Minister JP Nadda reassured the public on Monday, emphasizing that the virus, first identified in 2001, poses no new threat.

New Delhi [India], January 7 (HBTV): After three cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) were reported in India, Union Health Minister JP Nadda reassured the public on Monday, emphasizing that the virus, first identified in 2001, poses no new threat.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) confirmed two HMPV cases in Bengaluru, Karnataka, and another in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. These cases were detected through ongoing surveillance efforts monitoring respiratory illnesses across the country.

In a video statement, the Health Minister said:'Health experts have clarified that HMPV is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001. HMPV spreads through the air and can affect people of all age groups, especially during the winter and early spring months. There is no reason to worry, and the government is closely monitoring the situation.'

The ICMR and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) are actively tracking developments to ensure India’s preparedness for any emerging health challenges. According to Nadda, a joint monitoring group chaired by the Director General for Health Services reviewed the situation on January 4, and no significant surge in respiratory viral infections has been observed.

State-level Responses

  • Karnataka: Health Minister Dinesh Gundurao stated that the HMPV cases in Bengaluru are mild and resemble influenza-like illnesses. He assured the public that the cases are unrelated to HMPV infections reported in China. State Minister for Medical Education, Dr. Sharan Prakash, added: 'There is nothing to worry about. These are mild cases. Among the two children detected with HMPV, one has been discharged, and the other is doing well. No further testing is required at this stage.'

  • Gujarat: In Ahmedabad, a two-month-old infant from Rajasthan tested positive for HMPV. Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel reassured citizens, saying: 'This (HMPV) has been detected in a two-month-old child who came from Rajasthan. The child is now absolutely alright and ready for discharge. This is not a COVID-like virus.'

Doctors at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital confirmed that the child, admitted on December 24 with flu-like symptoms and mild breathing difficulty, has recovered.

Precautionary MeasuresThe government has advised citizens to follow basic hygiene practices, similar to those recommended during the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) confirmed that no HMPV cases have been reported in Mumbai.

Impact on Financial MarketsThe news caused slight jitters in financial markets, with the Nifty 50 ending the day down over 388 points and the BSE Sensex falling more than 1,258 points. Analysts attributed the decline to global cues rather than the virus itself.

About HMPVHMPV is a respiratory virus associated with mild to severe respiratory illnesses. Health authorities emphasized that no unusual surge in HMPV cases has been detected in India.

(ANI)