On January 5, 2025, India reported its first officially detected case of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
The case involved an eight-month-old baby, marking a significant event in India’s respiratory virus surveillance efforts. This development follows increased global attention to HMPV, particularly after a recent surge in cases in China.
What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?
Origin and Prevalence
It was first identified in 2001 in the Netherlands, is a respiratory virus that has likely existed for over 60 years. It belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, closely related to Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and is recognized as a major cause of acute respiratory infections worldwide.
Transmission
The virus spreads through:
- Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing.
- Close contact with infected individuals.
- Touching contaminated surfaces and subsequently touching the face.
Symptoms
Symptoms range from mild to severe:
- Mild: Cough, fever, nasal congestion, sore throat.
- Severe: Bronchitis, pneumonia, or exacerbation of chronic respiratory conditions, particularly in young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Details of the Bengaluru Case
Primary Case: An eight-month-old baby admitted to Baptist Hospital with bronchopneumonia tested positive for HMPV.
Secondary Case: A three-month-old female infant with a history of bronchopneumonia was also identified but discharged before the official announcement.
Both cases lacked a history of international travel, indicating local transmission.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) identified these cases through routine surveillance for respiratory viruses. The Karnataka Health Department confirmed the reports but stated that the specific strain of the virus remains unknown due to limited testing facilities.
The Union Health Ministry reassured the public that HMPV is not new to India and emphasized that there is no unusual surge in respiratory illnesses. Efforts are underway to expand testing capabilities and enhance year-round surveillance to monitor HMPV trends.
Prevalence
HMPV is present worldwide, with cases reported in countries like the United States, Canada, and Europe. A recent surge in China has highlighted its potential to strain healthcare systems due to severe respiratory illness, particularly during the winter months.
HMPV exhibits similarities to RSV and influenza, particularly in causing severe respiratory infections in vulnerable populations, such as children under five years and the elderly.
Management and Prevention
Treatment
There is no specific antiviral treatment for HMPV. Management focuses on symptomatic relief:
- Ensuring adequate hydration.
- Using bronchodilators for breathing difficulties.
- Hospitalization for oxygen therapy in severe cases.
Prevention
Preventive measures are critical:
- Practice good respiratory hygiene: cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
- Avoid close contact with sick individuals.
- Maintain adequate indoor ventilation.
- Protect high-risk groups with additional precautions like wearing masks during flu season.
Currently, there is no vaccine for HMPV.
Public Health Measures in India
State-Level Preparations
- Delhi, Maharashtra, and Telangana have issued advisories to enhance preparedness.
- Kerala has recommended mask usage for high-risk groups and emphasized public hygiene.
Authorities are intensifying efforts to educate the public about preventive measures to curb the spread of respiratory viruses. The ICMR continues to monitor trends and update testing protocols to ensure prompt detection and response.
The detection of HMPV has also affected market stability, with the Sensex dropping over 800 points due to concerns over potential health crises.
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