Mumbai: A six-month-old baby was diagnosed with Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) at Hiranandani Hospital in Powai, Mumbai on Wednesday. The baby was admitted on January 1 with severe respiratory symptoms, including a persistent cough, chest tightness and a critically low oxygen level of 84 percent.
Doctors confirmed the presence of HMPV using a newly developed rapid PCR test. The child received supportive treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), including bronchodilators to relieve breathing difficulties. As HMPV currently has no specific antiviral treatment, medical care focuses on managing symptoms.
Centre issues health advisory
After five days of intensive care, the baby’s condition stabilized, and she was discharged from the hospital.
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Following this case, the Union Health Ministry has urged states to increase surveillance for respiratory illnesses such as Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI). Awareness campaigns about the prevention and control of HMPV are also being emphasized.
Cases in Maharashtra
In addition to the case in Mumbai, two suspected HMPV infections were reported in Nagpur. Both patients were treated and discharged. Their samples have been sent to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Nagpur and the National Institute of Virology in Pune for confirmation.
India recorded its first HMPV cases earlier this week, with five children testing positive in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat. Union Health Minister JP Nadda reassured the public, stating that the government is closely monitoring the situation and that there is no cause for panic.
Global presence of HMPV
HMPV, a globally recognized virus first identified in 2001, causes respiratory infections across all age groups. Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava chaired a virtual meeting on January 6 with representatives from various states and Union Territories to discuss HMPV cases and broader respiratory health management.
During the meeting, officials said that surveillance data did not indicate an unusual rise in ILI or SARI cases nationwide. However, states were urged to remain vigilant and enhance monitoring systems, particularly during the winter months when respiratory illnesses typically surge.
Srivastava emphasized that India is well-prepared to handle potential increases in respiratory illnesses. The government is actively working to strengthen healthcare facilities and ensure the public is informed about preventive measures.
Precautionary measures
Health experts recommend regular handwashing, wearing masks in crowded places, and avoiding close contact with people displaying flu-like symptoms.
Those experiencing respiratory discomfort are advised to seek medical attention promptly.
