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PremiumHMPV Case Highlights: Over 15 cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) have been detected in different regions of India this season. Puducherry has reported three cases, while Gujarat has confirmed five. Additionally, Assam recorded its first case on Monday.
Meanwhile, China said the rate of infections in the northern part of the couuntry is declining. “The human metapneumovirus is not a new virus, and has been with humans for at least several decades," said Wang Liping, a researcher at the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, during a press briefing by China’s National Health Commission.
Earlier, China said that it was in close communication with the World Health Organisation (WHO) related to the situation of respiratory diseases, including HMPV.
HMPV symptoms
HMPV infection can be hard to differentiate from other viral infections such as the flu and influenza. Common symptoms of HMPV include cough, fever, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, and headache.
HMPV detection and treatment
Most health experts have highlighted that HMPV tests in patients with the mentioned symptoms are not necessary as there is no treatment for HMPV infection. Doctors focus on symptomatic treatment where they prescribe OTC medicines, inhalers, etc.
HMPV cases in India prevention
The easiest way to prevent HMPV infection is to take necessary precautions while staying outside. The World Health Organisation advises people to wear mask when outside, wash hands regularly, and maintain a balanced and healthy diet to prevent getting infected with HMPV.
Catch all LIVE Updates on HMPV Case here
Chinese authorities reported a slight decline in human metapneumovirus on Sunday amid growing concerns about a fresh global pandemic.
HMPV Case LIVE: Dr Shubham Vatsya, Senior Consultant Gastroenterology and Hepatology Fortis Hospital Vasant Kunj, told the Times of India that HMPV “hardly represents gastrointestinal concerns and very rarely manifests as nausea or vomiting."
“But in the case of COVID-19, there are certain gut troubles occurring too such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. The symptoms can sometimes precede or co-occur with respiratory issues and may even complicate its diagnosis," he wa quoted as saying.
HMPV Case LIVE: "HMPV is not a new virus; it was first identified in 2001. The virus is an emerging health concern, but there's no reason to panic. Understanding its symptoms, taking necessary precautions, and adhering to testing protocols are critical to managing its spread effectively," said Dr Aabid Amin Bhat, the Medical Director at Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals.
On HMPV case detected in Ghaziabad, Health Department Nodal Officer, Rakesh Kumar Gupta said, “... The suspected sample has been found in a private hospital and we have sent it for genomic confirmation to AIIMS Delhi."
“All the family members are healthy and since it is suspected, we are testing all the family members and the elderly has had chronic COPD due to which he had been admitted to the hospital multiple times," he told ANI.
"Now he is critical and on the ventilator because he has other problems and we are preparing... Since we got the information, we started the preparations already for the residents, agencies... There is no travel or contact history and we have sent the sample believing it to be suspected only...," he added
HMPV Case LIVE: While speaking to news agency ANI, Director of AIIMS, Rishikesh, Dr Meenu Singh said, "HMPV is a respiratory virus which usually affects kids under the age of 5, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals... This is not a new virus... It usually affects during winter and occurs alongside RSV... If a child has symptoms of acute respiratory infection like a cold, cough, or shortness of breath, then the child needs to be assessed immediately. Antibiotics don't help treat this virus... We need not be worried about HMPV as it has been in circulation in India for a long time. Only premature kids with low birth weight may suffer serious illness due to this virus... Patients of HMPV should be kept hydrated... If a patient has Vitamin D deficiency then that needs to be corrected... The instructions to hospitals are the same as for any influenza-like illness. There is no need for excessive isolation, but, social distancing, hand sanitising, and protection from cold weather should be practiced..."
HMPV Case LIVE: FAIMA Doctors Association released statement few days back, highlighting HMPV symptoms, tests and preventions.
HMPV Case LIVE: Amid rising concern around Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), Haryana Health Minister Arti Singh Rao assured the people that the state is ready to handle the situation and said there is no need to panic.
"We are ready. All the districts have been informed to stay alert... I want to request that the people should not be panicked. This virus can spread but it is not dangerous. It can be treated..," Rao told ANI.
HMPV Case LIVE: According to the WHO's latest guidelines, common symptoms of HMPV include
1.Cough
2.Fever
3.Sore throat
4.Runny nose
5.Body aches
6.Headaches
In some cases, it can lead to more severe conditions like pneumonia or bronchitis, with symptoms such as
1.Wheezing
2.Difficulty breathing
3.Chest pain
4.Dizziness
5.Severe fatigue
6.Dehydration
Persistent fever
The WHO advises seeking medical attention if experiencing any of these severe symptoms.
HMPV Case LIVE: Haryana Health Minister Arti Singh Rao has reassured the public amidst growing concerns over the HMPV virus, emphasizing the state's preparedness to handle the situation. She urged people not to panic, stressing that while the virus can spread, it is not dangerous and can be treated. Authorities are raising awareness about its symptoms and treatment, with districts on alert to stay vigilant.
HMPV Case LIVE: Dr Shubham Vatsya, Senior Consultant Gastroenterology and Hepatology Fortis Hospital Vasant Kunj, told the Times of India that HMPV “hardly represents gastrointestinal concerns and very rarely manifests as nausea or vomiting."
“But in the case of COVID-19, there are certain gut troubles occurring too such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. The symptoms can sometimes precede or co-occur with respiratory issues and may even complicate its diagnosis," he was quoted as saying.
HMPV Case LIVE: Experts say HMPV is unlike COVID-19 in that it has been around for decades and there is some built-in immunity to it. Most children are infected with the virus by the age of 5. Wang said respiratory diseases currently affecting people in China are caused by known pathogens, and no new infectious diseases have emerged.
There are no vaccines or drugs available for HMPV. Experts recommend precautions against catching the virus and other respiratory diseases including washing one’s hands regularly, avoiding crowds if possible, and wearing a mask in crowded places.
HMPV Case LIVE: Here's what Union Health Minister JP Nadda said earlier:
“Health experts have clarified that #HMPV is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001 and it has been circulating in the entire world since many years. HMPV spreads through air, by way of respiration. This can affect persons of all age groups."
“The virus spreads more during the winter and the early spring months. On recent reports, the cases of HMPV in China, the Health Ministry, the ICMR and the National Centre for Disease Control are keeping a close watch on the situation in China as well as in the neighbouring countries. WHO has taken cognisance of the situation and will share its report shortly with us."
“The country data for respiratory viruses available with ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program has also been reviewed and no surge in any of the common respiratory viral pathogens is observed in India. Joint monitoring group meeting was held under the chairmanship of Director General for Health Services on 4th January to review the situation."
"The health systems and surveillance networks of the country remain vigilant, ensuring the country is ready to respond promptly to any emerging health challenges. There is no reason to worry. We are closely monitoring the situation."
HMPV Case LIVE: On 13 January, another child was tested positive for Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Puducherry, PTO quoted senior official as saying. With this, the number of positive cases has gone up to three. Earlier two children in the age group of three and five years had tested positive for the virus.
HMPV Case LIVE: FAIMA Doctors Association released statement few days back, highlighting HMPV symptoms, tests and preventions. Check out below:
HMPV Case LIVE: Director of AIIMS, Rishikesh, Dr Meenu Singh said, "HMPV is a respiratory virus which usually affects kids under the age of 5, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals... This is not a new virus... It usually affects during winter and occurs alongside RSV.…
“If a child has symptoms of acute respiratory infection like a cold, cough, or shortness of breath, then the child needs to be assessed immediately. Antibiotics don't help treat this virus...," she told ANI.
"We need not be worried about HMPV as it has been in circulation in India for a long time. Only premature kids with low birth weight may suffer serious illness due to this virus... Patients of HMPV should be kept hydrated... If a patient has Vitamin D deficiency then that needs to be corrected... The instructions to hospitals are the same as for any influenza-like illness. There is no need for excessive isolation, but, social distancing, hand sanitising, and protection from cold weather should be practiced...," she said,
HMPV Case LIVE: On HMPV case detected in Ghaziabad, Health Department Nodal Officer, Rakesh Kumar Gupta said, “... The suspected sample has been found in a private hospital and we have sent it for genomic confirmation to AIIMS Delhi."
“All the family members are healthy and since it is suspected, we are testing all the family members and the elderly has had chronic COPD due to which he had been admitted to the hospital multiple times," he told ANI.
"Now he is critical and on the ventilator because he has other problems and we are preparing... Since we got the information, we started the preparations already for the residents, agencies... There is no travel or contact history and we have sent the sample believing it to be suspected only...," he added.
HMPV Case LIVE: HMPV, or the Human Metapneumovirus, made headlines after Chinese state media reported that the HMPV virus was among other pathogens responsible for the uptick in infectious respiratory illnesses in the country. Many compared this HMPV virus to the Coronavirus that triggered a pandemic in 2020. But is HMPV the same as the COVID-19 virus? Or, is it, in fact, different from it? Let's see the differences. Read on to know
HMPV Case LIVE: Here's what Union Health Minister JP Nadda said earlier:
“Health experts have clarified that #HMPV is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001 and it has been circulating in the entire world since many years. HMPV spreads through air, by way of respiration. This can affect persons of all age groups."
“The virus spreads more during the winter and the early spring months. On recent reports, the cases of HMPV in China, the Health Ministry, the ICMR and the National Centre for Disease Control are keeping a close watch on the situation in China as well as in the neighbouring countries. WHO has taken cognisance of the situation and will share its report shortly with us."
“The country data for respiratory viruses available with ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program has also been reviewed and no surge in any of the common respiratory viral pathogens is observed in India. Joint monitoring group meeting was held under the chairmanship of Director General for Health Services on 4th January to review the situation."
"The health systems and surveillance networks of the country remain vigilant, ensuring the country is ready to respond promptly to any emerging health challenges. There is no reason to worry. We are closely monitoring the situation."
HMPV Case LIVE: Dr Shubham Vatsya, Senior Consultant Gastroenterology and Hepatology Fortis Hospital Vasant Kunj, told the Times of India that HMPV “hardly represents gastrointestinal concerns and very rarely manifests as nausea or vomiting."
“But in the case of COVID-19, there are certain gut troubles occurring too such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. The symptoms can sometimes precede or co-occur with respiratory issues and may even complicate its diagnosis," he wa quoted as saying.
HMPV Case LIVE: Infection due to HMPV virus could range from mild to severe. Here's what you must know:
HMPV Case LIVE: Most HMPV cases are mild. But in susceptible individuals with underlying medical conditions, HMPV infection can lead to death, China's CDC stated.
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a globally recognised respiratory virus, affects individuals across all age groups, with symptoms ranging from mild cold-like discomfort to severe respiratory complications.
Since no specific vaccine or antiviral treatment is currently available, prevention through hygiene practices and early medical intervention remains crucial. Here's all you need to know about HMPV virus.
More than 15 HMPV cases have been found in India. These include three cases from Puducherry, five cases from Gujarat, three in Maharashtra, two each in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, and one from Assam.
HMPV Case LIVE: HMPV is known to induce coughing, breathing problems, and cold-like symptoms. However, physicians at Marengo Asia Hospitals Faridabad caution that it can also damage the liver, resulting in inflammation and other health complications. How dangerous could HMPC infection be? Tap here to read
HMPV Case LIVE: Chinese authorities reported a slight decline in human metapneumovirus on Sunday amid growing concerns about a fresh global pandemic. India has so far reported 17 cases of the flu-like virus — with authorities insisting that there was no cause for alarm about the situation. Tap here to read full report
HMPV Case LIVE: HMPV has been circulating across the world for decades. Amid the “scaremongering" over the spread of the virus, osef Gregory Mahoney, professor of Politics at East China Normal University said on his Linkedin that there's no indication that it originated in China, adding that the virus was first detected in the Netherlands, and has been found since 2001 globally.
HMPV Case LIVE: The HMPV virus was first identified in 2001. On January 10, Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel confirmed the presence of the virus in the state.
HMPV Case LIVE: Assam reported this season's first HMPV case on Monday. ICMR- Regional Medical Research Centre, NE, Lahowal (Dibrugarh) Senior Scientist Dr Biswajit Borkakoty said, "Since 2014, we have detected 110 HMPV cases in Dibrugarh district. This is the first case this season. Every year it is detected, and nothing is new. We have got the sample from AMCH and this has been found positive for HMPV."
HMPV Case LIVE: Experts say HMPV is unlike COVID-19 in that it has been around for decades and there is some built-in immunity to it. Most children are infected with the virus by the age of 5. Wang said respiratory diseases currently affecting people in China are caused by known pathogens, and no new infectious diseases have emerged.
There are no vaccines or drugs available for HMPV. Experts recommend precautions against catching the virus and other respiratory diseases including washing one’s hands regularly, avoiding crowds if possible, and wearing a mask in crowded places.
HMPV Case LIVE: Wang Liping, a China CDC research fellow, said at a press conference of China's National Health Commission (NHC) on Sunday that the human metapneumovirus (HMPV has already circulated among humans for decades, and the increase of reports about it in recent years can be attributed to advancements in detection methods, China daily reported.
HMPV Case LIVE: WHO suggests that one can treat their symptoms with over-the-counter medicines to treat pain, fever, stuffy nose and cough. One should take plenty of rest and stay hydrated.
“Currently, there is no approved antiviral medicine for hMPV. Most people feel better in a few days. If symptoms get worse, they should contact their health care provider," WHO said.
HMPV Case LIVE: Eating healthy foods to boost immunity will help fend off infections. Apart from balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep is important to keep your body healthy.
Those who catch HMPV infection must follow these preventive measures to curtail its spread:
HMPV Case LIVE: Odisha government will convene a meeting of health officials on Wednesday in the wake of detection of HMPV infection cases in the country.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the Health and Family Welfare department will review the preparedness for surveillance and management and deliberate on the steps to be taken to address the concerns regarding the virus, New Indian Express reported.
HMPV Case LIVE: According to WHO, prevention of HMPV infection is similar to other respiratory illnesses. Follow these steps to prevent spread of HMPV infection.
HMPV Case LIVE: Infants and children under 5 years old are more at risk of HMPV infection . “While anyone can catch hMPV, infants, older adults, and those with health conditions like immunosuppression, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma are at higher risk for severe illness," WHO said.
HMPV Case LIVE: People infected with HMPV show cold or flu-like symptoms. Given below are the 6 signs and symptoms of HMPV.
HMPV Case LIVE: It is difficult to spot the difference between different respiratory diseases and HMPV as they have similar symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose and congestion, WHO said.
However, treatment differs in each case especially for people who are immunocompromised. “Doctors may use diagnostic tests to identify the cause before deciding on the treatment, " WHO clarified.
HMPV Case LIVE: According to WHO, a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test is the most reliable way to diagnose hMPV. This test gives accurate results within a few hours.
However, this test may not be recommended for those with cold or flu-like symptoms. “there is no specific treatment for hMPV infection and in most cases, it causes mild disease," WHO said.
HMPV Case LIVE: In northern China, the rate of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections is declining. A researcher at the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wang Liping said, “At present, the rate of positive cases in human metapneumovirus detection is fluctuating, and the rate of positive cases in northern provinces is declining, "AP reported.
"The rate of positive cases among patients aged 14 and below has started to decline," she added during a press briefing by China’s National Health Commission.
HMPV Case LIVE: Director of Health for Puducherry, V Ravichandran, in press release on late Sunday said, “The girl child complained of fever, cough and running nose," PTI reported. The girl was admitted in JIPMER a few days ago and has been undergoing treatment.
HMPV Case LIVE: According to Chinese authorities, the health care system is not overwhelmed since hospital utilisation is lower this time as compared to last year. Data up to 29 December 2024 was used to arrive at this conclusion. Moreover, no emergency declarations or responses have been triggered.
The HMPV typically spreads through the air, especially during winter and early spring.
"HMPV is not a new virus; it was first identified in 2001. The virus is an emerging health concern, but there's no reason to panic. Understanding its symptoms, taking necessary precautions, and adhering to testing protocols are critical to managing its spread effectively," said Dr Aabid Amin Bhat, the Medical Director at Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals.
He said the common symptoms of an HMPV infection include cough, fever, fatigue, respiratory illness, sore throat, body aches, and gastrointestinal issues in some cases.
One more child in Puducherry tested positive for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) and is undergoing treatment in the centrally administered JIPMER here, a top official said.
Director of Health for Puducherry, V Ravichandran, in a release on late Sunday said that the girl child complained of fever, cough and running nose. She was admitted in JIPMER a few days ago and has been under treatment.
He said that the child was recovering well and all precautionary measures had been taken.
Puducherry reported the first HMPV (a three-year-old child) last week and was treated in a private hospital. The girl was discharged on Saturday after a full recovery.
The Puducherry administration has geared up all steps in the context of the virus, the Director said.
As of now, there are no vaccines or drugs available for HMPV.
Hence, experts recommend precautions against catching the virus and other respiratory diseases including washing one’s hands regularly, avoiding crowds if possible, and wearing a mask in crowded places.
HMPV belongs to the same family as the respiratory syncytial virus and causes flu or cold-like symptoms including fever, cough and nasal congestion.
The symptoms often clear up by themselves, though they can cause lower respiratory tract infections among children, older adults and those immunocompromised.
Another expert emphasised public awareness can play a pivotal role in minimising the spread of HMPV. "Individuals must stay informed through credible sources and follow public health guidelines."
Dr Ashok Kumar Singh, senior consultant at Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Regency Hospital, Kanpur, said"Early detection and preventive care are our strongest tools in combating the virus. By working together and taking proactive steps, we can safeguard public health and minimize the virus' impact."
Experts also revealed that taking preventive measures is important.
Practicing good hygiene such as washing hands frequently, wearing masks in crowded places and maintaining physical distance are effective ways to reduce the risk of transmission, Dr Madhu Nahar Roy, the Director of Internal Medicine at Paras Health Udaipur, said.
Strengthening immunity through a healthy diet, taking adequate sleep, and engaging in physical activity are also essential, he said.
An expert explained that HMPV spreads through the air, especially during winter and early spring.
"HMPV is not a new virus; it was first identified in 2001. The virus is an emerging health concern, but there's no reason to panic. Understanding its symptoms, taking necessary precautions, and adhering to testing protocols are critical to managing its spread effectively," said Dr Aabid Amin Bhat, the Medical Director at Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals.
The common symptoms include cough, fever, fatigue, respiratory illness, sore throat, body aches, and gastrointestinal issues in some cases.
"We recommend seeking medical attention if such symptoms arise," he said.
Experts explains that HMPV and COVID-19 are very different. HMPV has been around for decades and there is some built-in immunity to it. Most children are infected with the virus by the age of 5.
Wang Liping, a researcher at the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, said respiratory diseases currently affecting people in China are caused by known pathogens, and no new infectious diseases have emerged. The cases surged due to better detection method
Concerns surfaced in recent days over a surge in HMPV infections in northern China after images circulated online of hospitals overrun with masked patients. The World Health Organization said it has not received reports of unusual outbreaks in China or elsewhere.
HMPV Case LIVE: India has reported 17 cases over the past few days — including five from the western state of Gujarat. The list also includes three cases each from Maharashtra and West Bengal and two cases each from Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Both Assam and Puducherry have reported a case.
