'HMPV Already In Circulation In India', Health Ministry Says No Unusual Surge As ICMR Reports Two Cases

ICMR identified the two HMPV cases during routine surveillance for respiratory viral pathogens.

HMPV In India. (Image Used For Representational Purpose Only)

Source : PTI

The Union Health Ministry on Monday confirmed two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka. In an official statement, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said that while HMPV is "already in circulation" in India, there has been "no unusual surge" so far.

"HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India, and cases of respiratory illnesses associated with HMPV have been reported in various countries," the statement from the Health Ministry said.

"Furthermore, based on current data from ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) network, there has been no unusual surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases in the country," it added.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) identified the two cases during routine surveillance for respiratory viral pathogens. This monitoring is part of ICMR's efforts to track respiratory illnesses across the country.

The Ministry has assured and reiterated that they are closely monitoring the situation to prevent any potential outbreaks.

As both cases have been reported in Karnataka, the state government has sprung into action and called for an emergency meeting today.

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The World Health Organization (WHO) is providing timely updates on HMPV-related developments, including the situation in China, which is being closely watched by Indian health authorities.

The recent nationwide preparedness drill conducted across India demonstrated that healthcare facilities are equipped to handle a potential increase in respiratory illnesses. Public health interventions can be deployed promptly if required, officials said in the press release.

HMPV, which causes respiratory symptoms similar to the common cold, can become severe in young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Health experts advise the public to continue practising good hygiene and seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms worsen.