HMPV Virus A Killer? How many cases currently in India?

A nine-month-old child and a 59-year-old man tested positive for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Gujarat on Saturday, officials confirmed. This has taken the total number of HMPV cases in the state to five. Significantly, all five cases have cropped up within a less than a week, sparking worries over the fast spread of the virus in the region.

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus first identified in 2001, has recently garnered attention due to a surge in cases in China and subsequent detections in other countries, including India. HMPV typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms but can lead to severe respiratory illness in vulnerable populations such as infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.

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Recent Cases in India

In early January 2025, India reported its first cases of HMPV. Two infants—a three-month-old girl and a six-month-old boy—tested positive for the virus at Baptist Hospital in Bengaluru. Another case was identified in Ahmedabad. These instances have raised public concern, especially in light of reports from China where hospitals have been overwhelmed with respiratory illness cases attributed to HMPV. India has now reported over 13 cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), reflecting a growing trend of the respiratory virus across various states.

Government Response

The Union Health Ministry of India has addressed these concerns by emphasizing that HMPV is not a new virus and has been present globally since its discovery. The ministry stated that there is no direct connection between the cases in India and the outbreak in China. They have advised the public to adhere to standard respiratory hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing, wearing masks in crowded places, and maintaining social distancing, to prevent the spread of respiratory infections.

Understanding HMPV

HMPV is a negative-sense single-stranded RNA virus belonging to the Pneumoviridae family. It primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, close personal contact, or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the face. The incubation period ranges from 3 to 6 days. Symptoms often include cough, runny nose, fever, and muscle aches. While most individuals recover without complications, severe cases can lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia, particularly in high-risk groups.

Global Perspective

The recent increase in HMPV cases in China has led to heightened surveillance worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) has noted that the rise in respiratory illnesses during winter months is typical and within expected seasonal trends. They have not observed any unusual patterns that would suggest a more serious global health issue. Other countries, including the UK and Australia, have also reported cases but maintain that the situation does not pose a significant threat akin to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Preventive Measures and Recommendations

Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV. Management focuses on supportive care to relieve symptoms. Health authorities recommend the following preventive measures:

Hand Hygiene: Regularly wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Respiratory Etiquette: Cover mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing.

Avoid Close Contact: Maintain distance from individuals exhibiting symptoms of respiratory illness.

Disinfection: Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Stay Informed: Keep abreast of updates from health authorities and follow public health advisories.

While the detection of HMPV cases in India has understandably caused concern, health officials ensure that the situation is under control. The public is advised to remain vigilant and practice standard preventive measures to reduce the risk of infection. Ongoing surveillance and research are essential to monitor the virus’s behaviour and to develop potential treatments or vaccines in the future.