India Reports First Cases of HMPV Virus, Health Authorities on High Alert

Bengaluru, Karnataka – In a worrying development, India has reported its first cases of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus that can cause severe illness, particularly in vulnerable populations.

According to officials from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), two infants, aged 3 months and 8 months, have tested positive for HMPV in Bengaluru. Both cases were detected through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens.

The 3-month-old female infant was admitted to Baptist Hospital in Bengaluru with bronchopneumonia and has since been discharged. The 8-month-old male infant is currently recovering at the same hospital.

Health authorities have assured that they are closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary precautions to prevent further transmission. “We are working closely with the state health department to ensure that all necessary measures are in place to contain the spread of the virus,” said an ICMR official.

The HMPV virus typically causes mild respiratory symptoms, but can lead to severe complications in vulnerable groups. The government has advised citizens to take precautions, such as frequent handwashing and wearing masks, to prevent the spread of the virus.