India records its first three cases of HMPV infection

The cases were reported by the Indian Ministry of Health on January 6. Two cases were reported in Karnataka and one in Gujarat. Before that, an epidemic appeared in China, reminiscent of Covid-19. The virus has put governments around the globe on alert, advising people to take precautions. Beijing is also concerned about a spring surge in respiratory infections, leading to overcrowding at hospitals.

Two pediatric patients infected with HMPV in Karnataka are a three-month-old girl and a six-month-old boy. The girl had a history of bronchopneumonia, and the boy was hospitalized with symptoms of fever and difficulty breathing before testing positive. In Gujarat, the virus was detected in a two-month-old boy who was hospitalized on December 24 with symptoms of respiratory infection.

Although sporadic cases have been recorded, Federal Health Minister JP Nadda reassured the public about the HMPV virus, affirming that the Ministry is closely monitoring the situation and there is nothing to worry about. Mr. Nadda clarified that HMPV is not a new virus, it was first identified in 2001 and has been circulating for a long time. The virus spreads through the air, affecting all ages, especially in winter and early spring.

The Ministry is also monitoring the epidemic developments in China and neighboring countries. To date, India has not recorded a sudden wave of infections or hospital overload.

“The country’s health system and surveillance network remain vigilant, ensuring readiness to promptly respond to emerging health challenges. There is no reason to worry. We are monitoring closely monitor the situation,” Mr. Nadda said.

The Delhi government has issued advisories to prepare for potential health challenges associated with HMPV. Dr. Vandana Bagga, Director General of Health Services, convened a meeting with district health directors to discuss preparedness. with respiratory diseases in Delhi in general. According to the government, India is ready to handle winter-spring epidemics.

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HMPV belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, the same family as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It often causes upper and lower respiratory tract infections, with symptoms similar to the common cold or flu.

On January 5, Karnataka health authorities said HMPV mainly affects children, causing cough, fever, nasal congestion and difficulty breathing. They advise people to cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, regularly wash their hands with soap and avoid public places if they have symptoms. At the same time, people should not reuse masks, avoid close contact with sick people, and do not share towels or bed sheets.

There is currently no antiviral medication to treat HMPV, but doctors can treat symptomatically, giving patients rest, rehydration, and over-the-counter medications.