While the world is worried about the outbreak of HMPV in China, the first case of the virus has been detected in the Indian city of Bengaluru, according to reports.
Amid the surge in China, it is said first case of HMPV in India.
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Reports citing the state health department said the child’s sample was not tested in their laboratory and the reports came from a private hospital. “The reports came from a private hospital and we have no reason to doubt the private hospital’s tests,” a source in the health department told the media. The state health department issued an advisory on Saturday saying that no case of HMPV has been detected in Karnataka, making it the first case.
The first case of HMPV in India is an 8-month-old child
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common respiratory virus that mainly affects the lungs and respiratory tract. Discovered in 2001, HMPV is a member of the paramyxovirus family and is closely related to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It can infect people of all ages, but poses a higher risk to infants, young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. The virus is spread through the respiratory tract by coughing, sneezing, or direct contact with contaminated surfaces.
In infants, the symptoms of HMPV often mimic those of other respiratory infections and can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:
- Fever: Low to moderate fever.
- Cough: Persistent and may become severe.
- Congestion: Nasal congestion or runny nose.
- Difficulty breathing: rapid or labored breathing, wheezing and dilated nostrils.
- Fatigue: increased irritability and decreased activity.
- Poor feeding: Difficulty breastfeeding or bottle feeding due to breathing problems.
In severe cases, HMPV can lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia, which requires medical intervention. Parents should watch for signs of respiratory distress, such as chapped lips or excessive tiredness, and seek immediate medical attention if they occur. Early diagnosis and supportive care are important to control HSV in infants.
“In light of recent media reports on the spread of HSV in China, the Government of India, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issued a statement on January 4 that HSV, like any other respiratory virus, causes colds and flu. symptoms in the winter season, especially in the younger and older age groups,” the Ministry of Health of the Union State noted.
“Most cases present with symptoms such as cold, cough and fever, which are self-limiting and can be managed with general medicine at home. Children rarely require hospitalization as the infection is usually mild,” Dr. Suresh Gupta, Paediatrician, Sir Ganga Ram. The hospital informed the media.
