Seven cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection in children were reported in India on Monday, two each in the states of Karnataka, Nagpur and Tamil Nadu and one in Ahmedabad.
Amid an outbreak of a cocktail of respiratory diseases in China, the sudden rise of HMPV in India has raised concerns. However, Union Health Minister JP Nadda on Monday assured that the virus is not something new and the situation does not indicate the beginning of another outbreak similar to COVID-19.
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not a new virus and has been circulating worldwide for many years.
The country’s health systems and surveillance networks remain vigilant, ensuring that the country is ready to respond promptly to any emerging health issues. No reason… pic.twitter.com/IN1o5N38dq
– Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) January 6, 2025
According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the eight-month-old and 3-month-old infant and other reported cases had no travel history and yet were diagnosed with human metapneumovirus. However, the Union Health Ministry as well as the state governments are closely monitoring the situation.
HMPV was first identified in 2001 as a respiratory infection that mimics flu-like symptoms. The virus currently affects people of all age groups, but it mainly targets children. But why are only children vulnerable to the virus?
HMPV in India: What makes children vulnerable to the virus
Human metapneumovirus is a type of respiratory virus that can cause serious illness, especially in young children. “Apart from children, HMPV also targets the elderly and immunocompromised,” says Dr Renu Soni, MD (Respiratory Medicine), Consultant Pulmonologist, NIIMS Medical College, Greater Noida.
Children are more vulnerable to HMPV because their immune systems are still developing. Dr Naseeruddin Jee, consultant in internal medicine at Fortis Hospital in Cunningham Road, explains: “Their immune cells are still maturing and they are not exposed to the various environmental factors that adults are already exposed to. This creates a serious challenge for their immune system to fight off viral infections, making children more susceptible to HMPV.”
📌 #Breaking
📍PRESS RELEASE REGARDS #HMPVWe must be prepared for any negative consequences of the virus.
At the moment, the situation looks under control and there is no need to panic!
But @MoHFW_INDIA should take preventive measures.@PMOIndia @JPNadda @DghsIndia @ANI @PTI_News pic.twitter.com/x82zoAEj6t
— FAIMA Medical Association (@FAIMA_INDIA_) January 6, 2025
Risk of HMPV in children
Children get this virus more often. They are vulnerable to HMPV because their immune systems are not yet fully developed. This makes it harder for their bodies to fight infections. According to Dr. Amit Gupta, senior neonatologist and paediatrician, Maternal Hospital, Noida, “Children are often in close contact with others in schools, classrooms, nurseries or playgrounds, which greatly increases the chances of contracting this virus. This virus can be easily spread by coughing, sneezing or touching contaminated surfaces. That is why it becomes crucial for parents to take maximum care of their little ones to protect them from the HMPV virus.”
“This can be achieved by encouraging good hygiene practices at home as well as when going out. Teach them to wash their hands often. Other preventative measures can include using a tissue or handkerchief when coughing or sneezing (dispose of used tissues), eating foods that are rich in essential nutrients to boost their immunity, and avoiding exposure to those who are sick, it is important to naturally nurture immunity.” adds Dr. Gupta.
Is HMPV more deadly than COVID-19?
In terms of fatality rates, HMPV significantly causes lower respiratory tract infections, which are less lethal than COVID-19. According to Dr. Soni, “It is extremely rare to develop an invariably serious HMPV infection that leads to a rare type of pneumonia in high-risk individuals.
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