Not a new virus, no cause for alarm: Union Health Minister on HMPV

New Delhi: Union Health Minister JP Nadda addressed concerns on Monday regarding the detection of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in India, emphasizing that there is no cause for alarm. He reassured the public that the situation was under close surveillance by the government and health authorities.

Nadda clarified that HMPV is not a new virus. First identified in 2001, it has been circulating globally, including in India, for decades. The virus, which spreads through respiratory droplets, can affect individuals of all age groups, with a higher prevalence during winter and early spring.

Following reports of HMPV in China, the Ministry of Health, along with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), is actively monitoring the situation in China and neighbouring countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also been engaged and is expected to share its assessment shortly.

A recent joint meeting led by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) on January 4 reviewed the status of respiratory illnesses in India. Data from the ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme show no surge in respiratory virus cases, including HMPV, within the country.

India has reported isolated cases of HMPV, including two infants in Karnataka, one in Gujarat, and two children in Tamil Nadu. These cases were detected through routine respiratory virus surveillance. In Karnataka, an eight-month-old male infant and a three-month-old female infant, both with a history of bronchopneumonia, tested positive for HMPV. Both have since shown improvement, with one already discharged from Baptist Hospital in Bengaluru. The ministry confirmed that none of the cases had any history of international travel.

Health systems and surveillance networks across India remain vigilant, ensuring readiness to respond to emerging health challenges. Recent preparedness drills have demonstrated the country's capacity to manage potential increases in respiratory illnesses. The ministry stated that public health interventions will be promptly deployed if necessary.

The government continues to monitor HMPV trends year-round through the ICMR and other surveillance channels, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding public health.