Global HMPV Tracker: Karnataka, Maharashtra Issue Guidelines As Cases Rise

Global HMPV Tracker: Three cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) were confirmed in India on Monday, marking the first reported instances of the virus in the country, according to the Union health ministry.

In Bengaluru, a three-month-old baby, who has been discharged, and an eight-month-old, who is recovering at a hospital, were the two cases. A two-month-old was also found infected in Ahmedabad. 

The affected infants and their families have no recent travel history, ruling out exposure from other regions or countries. The HMPV is a globally recognised respiratory virus that recently gained attention after its outbreak was reported in China.

The Union health ministry said it is monitoring the situation through all available surveillance channels. The Indian Council of Medical Research (IMCR) will continue to track trends in HMPV circulation throughout the year, it said. 

The governments in Karnataka, Maharashtra and Delhi have issued guidelines - similar to those followed during Covid-19 - to ensure preparedness for potential health challenges related to HMPV.

HMPV, first identified in 2001, is a respiratory infection that causes flu-like symptoms. It can affect people of all ages, although children below five years of age, older adults and those with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk.

Here are the latest updates on HMPV: