2 HMPV Cases Detected In India

Two babies have been detected with Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) at a hospital in India.

An 8-month-old boy and a 3-month-old girl have been detected with the virus in Bengaluru’s Baptist Hospital.

They did not have any history of international travel. Both patients have a previous history of bronchopneumonia.

The central government highlighted that HMPV cases are already being reported globally, including in India, and asked people not to worry.

The HMPV is typically found in children under the age of eleven. HMPV accounts for approximately 0.7% of all flu samples.

"In the past, we have identified cases related to HMPV in many patients. There is nothing alarming about this, and there is no need for anyone to panic,” Karnataka Health Commissioner Harsha Gupta said.

What's HMPV?

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that produces symptoms similar to a cold. You may cough or wheeze, have a runny nose, or a sore throat. The majority of cases are mild, but young children, persons over the age of 65, and those with compromised immune systems are more likely to become seriously ill. HMPV is very common; most people get it before they are five.