HMPV virus in India: In early January 2025, two human metapneumovirus infections (HMPV) were identified in Bengaluru, Karnataka, posing a new health threat to India. The virus, which causes respiratory illnesses, belongs to a family of viruses called pneumoviridae. The virus has already raised concerns globally after being reported by several countries in recent months. Questions have been raised about the spread of the virus in India and whether the country is prepared to manage it after a two-month-old newborn tested positive.

It was found more than 20 years ago by Dutch scientists. However, recent studies reveal that it has been the cause of respiratory illnesses for over 50 years. This article will try to give detailed information on the current situation in India, explaining what the virus is, its symptoms, how it spreads, and the necessary steps that should be taken.

What is the HMPV virus?

Human metapneumovirus is a respiratory virus that primarily affects young children, elderly persons, and people with weakened immunity. It was first identified in 2001 in the Netherlands, and since then, it has been a known cause of respiratory illnesses globally. It belongs to the family of paramyxoviruses, similar to other members that cause respiratory viruses, such as the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).

As is the case with other respiratory viruses, it is mainly spread through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even talks. It can also be spread through touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the face.

Classification of hMPV virus

Symptoms of HMPV virus

The symptoms of the HMPV virus can vary, but the most common signs of infection include:

• Cough
• Fever
• Wheezing
• Runny nose
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue

In some cases, people with HMPV may have worse symptoms, such as bronchitis, pneumonia, or exacerbation of underlying respiratory conditions. This is most likely to occur in infants, elderly people, and immunocompromised patients.

The First Reported Cases in India in 2025

On January 6, 2025, the Indian Council of Medical Research confirmed two cases in Bengaluru, Karnataka. Both the cases were infants: a three-month-old babygirl and an eight-month-old babyboy. Both children had a history of bronchopneumonia, and after admission to a private hospital in Bengaluru, they were diagnosed. Thankfully, both children are now recovering, and the ministry has assured the public that the situation is under control.

However, hours passed from this report, and a third case came up in the form of a suspected one in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The case involved a two-month-old child in the private hospital in Chandkheda, Gujarat, who tested positive. The local media, including Gujarat Samachar, reported it, though health authorities have yet to confirm at the time of writing.

The Emergence of HMPV in India

India is not new to the respiratory viruses. The country has faced several epidemics of H1N1, COVID-19, and seasonal flu over the past years. However, the emergence of HMPV in India does pose a significant threat for a number of reasons.

The virus is new in India, and not much information is available about its spread in the country. Although it has been circulating all over the world, especially in China, Malaysia, and the United States, HMPV was not a cause of much concern in India till now.

The virus seems to affect infants and young children more than any other age group. These children are particularly vulnerable to severe respiratory infections. The two recent cases reported in infants are alarming, and the situation should be monitored closely.

It is essential to take precautions to prevent the spread of respiratory infections. Some of the best practices include:

Is HMPV linked to the virus outbreak in China?

As the news of cases in India spread, people began to ask whether these cases were related to the virus outbreaks that were reported in other countries, especially in China. The health ministry in India has clarified, however, that the confirmed cases in Bengaluru were not connected to any international outbreaks since the affected children had no history of travel to China or other countries with rising cases.

This clarification is significant in the sense that it can dispel the apprehensions that might be there regarding the possible international spread of the virus to India, at least for this case. However, experts caution that viruses like HMPV can rapidly spread within communities, especially through the winter months, when more people have respiratory illnesses.

Steps Being Taken to Control the Spread of HMPV

To control the HMPV spread, the Indian government, in collaboration with local health authorities, has put in place several measures:

• Surveillance and Testing: The ICMR has been conducting routine surveillance for respiratory viral pathogens. It has instructed all healthcare facilities throughout the nation to test for HMPV cases, especially respiratory illnesses of children and the elderly.
• Public Awareness: The authorities are trying to raise public awareness about the virus, its symptoms, and preventive measures. This includes educating people on the importance of hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing and wearing masks in crowded places, to reduce the risk of transmission.
• Monitoring ILI: The IDSP is closely monitoring the prevalence of ILI and SARI cases in the country. According to the statement given by the health ministry, there has been no unusual surge in these cases, which suggests that the situation is not yet alarming.
• Strengthen Healthcare Capacity: Encourage hospitals, but especially those that have pediatric or respiratory care services, to prepare themselves for what may be increased cases. Preparedness includes such things as enough ventilators, oxygen supplies, and other equipment should severe cases of respiratory illness arrive.

How Can You Protect Yourself from HMPV?

Though HMPV is not yet prevalent in India, it is essential to take precautions to prevent the spread of respiratory infections. Some of the best practices include:

1. Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Use hand sanitizers if soap and water are not available.
2. Avoid Close Contact: If you or a family member feels unwell, avoid close contact with others, especially infants, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
3. Wear Masks: In crowded public spaces or hospitals, wear masks to avoid the spread of respiratory droplets that may contain the virus.
4. Disinfect Surfaces: Regularly disinfect commonly touched surfaces such as door handles, light switches, and mobile phones.
5. Consult a Doctor: If you or your child starts experiencing symptoms such as a persistent cough, fever, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

Should We Be Worried About HMPV?

A cause for serious concern is that there have been reports of cases from Bengaluru and one from Gujarat too, but at the same time, it cannot be said that there is any reason to panic. There has been evidence to show respiratory complications, especially in infants and the elderly, but till now, there has been no clear evidence of widespread transmission in India. Health authorities have closely monitored the situation and taken various preventive measures to minimize further spread of infection.

Like any other disease or health threat in recent times, stay informed, follow prophylaxis measures, and seek advice from a medical authority when necessary. Things will surely keep changing, and staying abreast with credible information from the health authorities would be important in managing the threat of HMPV.