Highlights | HMPV Cases In India: Fresh Cases Detected In Chennai, Kolkata

HMPV in India Highlights: The remarks from the Union Minister come as India reports a total of eight cases of HMPV so far. Out of the total cases reported, two were reported in Bengaluru, one in Gujarat, two in Chennai, and three in Kolkata.

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HMPV Virus Cases in India Highlights: Out of the total 8 cases reported so far, two were reported in Bengaluru, one in Gujarat, two in Chennai, and three in Kolkata. Two infants in Karnataka and one in Gujarat, along with two children in Tamil Nadu, have tested positive for HMPV, health officials said on Monday.

Union Health Minister JP Nadda said, "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."

On HMPV cases, Public Health Director Dr Nilakantha Mishra said, " No specific guideline has been issued by Govt of India but they have issued a press release and we are geared up to tackle any situation...heightened surveillance is the most important thing. This is a moderately transmissible virus not highly transmissible."

On HMPV cases reported, Chief Patron of FAIMA Dr Rohan Krishnan said, "... HMPV belongs to pneumoviridae family of RNA viruses, which also includes the influenza and COVID viruses. It causes acute respiratory illness and was first identified in the Netherlands in 2000... HMPV spreads through droplet infections, meaning it transmits from person to person via respiratory droplets... Prevention measures are similar to those for influenza and COVID, including wearing masks, maintaining physical distance and isolating if symptoms like fever or a cold appear... While HMPV is less virulent than COVID, these precautions significantly reduce the risk of transmission..."

Extensive preparations are underway for the successful organisation of Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, with the health department taking proactive steps to address potential health challenges, including the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV).

06 January 2025

21:23 IST

HMPV Cases in India Live: UP Administration To Make Arrangements To Tackle Health Challenges Ahead Of Mahakumbh 2025

Extensive preparations are underway for the successful organisation of Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, with the health department taking proactive steps to address potential health challenges, including the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV).

Upper Mela Officer Vivek Chaturvedi highlighted that all necessary health management measures have been implemented. He noted that regular communication and workshops are being conducted for doctors and consultants to ensure they are well-prepared. Strict adherence to guidelines issued by the Government of India and the Uttar Pradesh government is also being ensured to safeguard public health.

Held every 12 years, Maha Kumbh is expected to draw an enormous crowd of nearly 45 crore devotees from January 13 to February 26.

To ensure the safety and comfort of attendees, the district administration has been taking robust measures. Earlier, the Peshwai procession of the Ananda Akhada marked a grand entry into the Maha Kumbh Mela premises.

The 'Sobha Yatra,' which began at the Anand Akhada premises near Baghambari Math, featured thousands of saints and sadhus riding elephants, horses, and chariots, accompanied by the sound of drums and trumpets, adding a vibrant start to the festivities.

20:35 IST

HMPV in India Live: BMC Says, 'No Patient Infected With HMPV In Mumbai'

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation on Monday said that no Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) case has been reported in Mumbai and urged the citizens to take precautions.

"Various news has been published in the media regarding the ongoing outbreak of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) virus in China. The Directorate of Health Services, Pune has issued a guideline in this regard on January 3, 2025. Information about what to do and what not to do has been given through the guidelines. The information is being given through the Public Health Department of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation that no such patient infected with Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been found in Mumbai city and suburbs. However, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation administration is also appealing to citizens to follow the guidelines," the BMC stated.

"It is a seasonal disease that usually occurs in winter and early summer, like RSV and flu. The virus was first detected in the Netherlands in the year 2001. There is no cause for concern regarding the report of Human Metapneumovirus virus detected in China. Necessary precautions are being taken in this regard and there is no need to create an atmosphere of unnecessary panic," the BMC stated.

20:33 IST

HMPV Cases in India Live: 'Heightened Surveillance Is Most Important,' Says Public Health Director Dr Nilakantha Mishra

On HMPV cases, Public Health Director Dr Nilakantha Mishra said, " No specific guideline has been issued by Govt of India but they have issued a press release and we are geared up to tackle any situation...heightened surveillance is the most important thing. This is a moderately transmissible virus not highly transmissible."

20:06 IST

Live HMPV Virus Cases in India: Two Children Test Positive For HMPV In Chennai, Nationwide Tally Up To 8

Two children have tested positive for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) and are currently undergoing treatment, a health official said on Monday. These two are the first cases to be reported from the city from two hospitals. Further details are awaited. Meanwhile, officials of the state health department held a meeting to discuss the measures to be taken to screen for HMPV and the precautions to be put in place to contain its spread. 

HMPV Virus News: 3 Cases Reported In Kolkata Since November; Nationwide Tally Up To 6 #DNAVideos | #HMPVVirus | #HMPVVirusInIndia | #HumanMetapneumovirus | #HMPVoutbreak

For more videos, click here https://t.co/6ddeGFqedQ pic.twitter.com/F2oekmQucn

— DNA (@dna) January 6, 2025

19:57 IST

HMPV Virus in India Live: Chief Patron Of FAIMA Dr Rohan Krishnan Reacts On HMPV Cases Reported

Delhi: On HMPV cases reported, Chief Patron of FAIMA Dr Rohan Krishnan said, "... HMPV belongs to pneumoviridae family of RNA viruses, which also includes the influenza and COVID viruses. It causes acute respiratory illness and was first identified in the Netherlands in 2000... HMPV spreads through droplet infections, meaning it transmits from person to person via respiratory droplets... Prevention measures are similar to those for influenza and COVID, including wearing masks, maintaining physical distance and isolating if symptoms like fever or a cold appear... While HMPV is less virulent than COVID, these precautions significantly reduce the risk of transmission..."

Watch here:

#WATCH | Delhi | On HMPV cases reported, Chief Patron of FAIMA Dr Rohan Krishnan says, "... HMPV belongs to pneumoviridae family of RNA viruses, which also includes the influenza and COVID viruses. It causes acute respiratory illness and was first identified in the Netherlands in… pic.twitter.com/cCMwDiNwD8

— ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025

19:35 IST

HMPV In India Live: Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj Reacts, Says 'The Health Secretary Has Been Instructed To Visit Three Hospitals Daily'

"The central government's health department has issued a notification stating that two cases of HMPV have been found in Karnataka. The concern is that neither of these individuals had any travel history, which increases the worry that they might have contracted the virus from within the country. Since this virus is spreading globally, the concern is heightened. The Health Secretary has been instructed to visit three hospitals daily and oversee the arrangements."

Watch here:

VIDEO | Here's what Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj (@Saurabh_MLAgk) said on cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in India.

"The central government's health department has issued a notification stating that two cases of HMPV have been found in Karnataka. The concern is… pic.twitter.com/iJP5k87oVo

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 6, 2025

19:25 IST

HMPV Virus In India Live: 'Ready To Respond To Any Emerging Health Challenges,' Says Union Health Minister JP Nadda 

Union Health Minister JP Nadda said, "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."

Watch here:

#WATCH | Union Health Minister JP Nadda says, "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… pic.twitter.com/h1SSshe2iQ

— ANI (@ANI) January 6, 2025

19:07 IST

HMPV Virus in India Live: The Directorate Of Medical Education, Karnataka Issues Advisory

The Directorate of Medical Education, Karnataka issued advisory titled 'Do Not Panic, Be Aware', after two cases of HMPV were reported in Bengaluru.

The Directorate of Medical Education, Karnataka issues advisory titled 'Do Not Panic, Be Aware', after two cases of HMPV were reported in Bengaluru.#hmpvvirus pic.twitter.com/BDPTRdEU8c

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 6, 2025

19:03 IST

HMPV in India Live: 'No HMPV Cases Detected In Bengal So Far,' Says CM Mamata Banerjee

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Monday said no Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases have so far been detected in the state.

A two-month-old boy admitted to a private hospital in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, has been detected with HMPV infection, while two cases were reported from Karnataka.

"In Bangalore, two cases have been reported. Here, we are yet to detect any such case. Our chief secretary has already held a meeting and taken precautionary measures," Banerjee told reporters here.

Banerjee is on a two-day visit to the Sagar Island in South 24 Parganas to take stock of preparations for the Ganga Sagar Mela (religious congregation) to be held later this month.

18:39 IST

Kejriwal Urges Modi Govt To Act

Arvind Kejriwal expressed concern on Monday over the detection of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases and urged the central government to take prompt action to avert a potential health crisis. His statement followed confirmation from the Union health ministry that the Indian Council of Medical Research had identified two cases of HMPV in Karnataka during routine surveillance for respiratory viral pathogens. "The outbreak of the HMPV virus calls for immediate attention from the Centre. Drawing from our experience with COVID, it’s crucial to contain such cases early and be prepared to tackle what could potentially become another health emergency," said Kejriwal on X.

18:34 IST

The HMPV has been in the news for some weeks as photos and videos of people wearing masks in hospitals in China emerged on social media platforms, with the local reports mentioning the outbreak of HMPV.

17:37 IST

HMPV Cases in India Live: Karnataka, Maharashtra, Delhi Issue Guidelines As Cases Rise

The Union Health Ministry said it is monitoring the situation through all available surveillance channels. The Indian Council of Medical Research (IMCR) will continue to track trends in HMPV circulation throughout the year, it said. 

The governments in Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Delhi have issued guidelines to ensure preparedness for potential health challenges related to HMPV.

HMPV, first identified in 2001, is a respiratory infection that causes flu-like symptoms. It can affect people of all ages, although children under five, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk.

16:56 IST

HMPV vs COVID-19: Myths Surrounding Human Metapneumovirus

Dr Goyal says that there are also several myths revolving around HMPV, one being that it could be as fatal as Covid-19. "True, HMPV can indeed cause severe respiratory illness, and it is always worse in some vulnerable individuals; however, its mortality rate or prevalence is less compared to that of COVID-19. Mostly, HMPV causes a mild to moderately severe illness for most people affected, with such severe cases commonly occurring in infants, the aged, or otherwise immunocompromised. HMPV is not as transmissible as Covid-19 or even as virulent for the general population," says Dr Goyal.

16:41 IST

The Maharashtra health department said that no case of HMPV has been detected in the state. However, the health department issued an advisory asking the district administration to keep vigil while stepping up surveillance of patients with cold and cough. 

In its advisory, the state health department has released dos and don'ts for the citizens.

16:39 IST

Kerala Health Minister Veena George was quoted by ANI saying that the HMPV is more likely to affect children and the elderly, so they, as well as those with other serious illnesses and people receiving palliative care, should be more cautious.

16:30 IST

Will There Be Another Lockdown In India ?

 Amid the detection of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection in India, people are worried whether there will be another lockdown in the country.

16:18 IST

Dr Rakesh Joshi, Superintendent of Ahmedabad Civil Hospital says, "...There is no need to panic. We will definitely have to be alert and take precautions. This virus is not new. This has been there for years. Infection cases are seen especially during winter. There is no vaccination or specific drug for this virus infection, treatment is provided as per symptoms. If we maintain everything, recovery is made in 5-7 days. The viral infection can be more common in those who have low immunity, especially children and the elderly...If you experience fever, cold, or cough - don't step out and isolate yourself...If you feel necessary, use a mask...One case has been reported (in the state), so will have to take precautions but there is no need to panic..."

16:17 IST

HMPV is a respiratory virus primarily affecting the lungs and airways. Dr Diksha Goyal, Senior Consultant - Internal Medicine, Marengo Asia Hospitals Gurugram shares, "It can cause the same symptoms as the common cold, which include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and also wheezing; however, it most commonly occurs in young children, elderly individuals, and those whose immune systems are weakened." 

Talking about how the virus spreads, Dr Goyal adds, "The infection is spread through respiratory droplets, so it is contagious. Although the majority of the cases are not severe, severe infections lead to pneumonia or bronchiolitis, especially in high-risk groups."

16:07 IST

Delhi Govt Alerts Hospitals

The Delhi government on Monday issued instructions to all hospitals in the capital to be fully prepared to handle a potential rise in respiratory illnesses following the detection of two Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in Karnataka. In a directive labeled "Most Urgent," Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj directed the health and family welfare department to closely monitor the situation and maintain regular communication with the Union health ministry for timely updates. "Hospitals under the Delhi government must be fully equipped to handle any potential increase in respiratory illnesses, as advised by the Union health ministry," the directive issued by Bharadwaj said.

16:05 IST

Will Schools Opt For Online Classes?

However, since the cases are infecting kids, and if there happens a largescale outbreak, the schools in the affected region may opt to go online to help kids maintain social distancing. 

15:51 IST

Doctors say HMPV is receiving significant attention this year because there is an atypical rise in cases with increased infections compared to previous expectations in various countries

15:36 IST

Will There Be Another Lockdown Like COVID-19?

Now, with the infections already being reported from two states, the concern is growing across the country. People are also worried about whether the spread will lead to another lockdown in India. As of now, the government has maintained that there is no need to panic as the cases in India are not linked to China. The government has already activated its health agency to monitor the situation and take steps to aware the public.

15:25 IST

Is a New Virus Outbreak Emerging in India?

The lasting impact of the Covid-19 pandemic is still vivid in the minds of people worldwide. The threat of another viral outbreak evokes a sense of déjà vu. Now, HMPV has caused a global stir, with three cases reported today in India.

15:09 IST

How Does HMPV Spread?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HMPV is highly contagious. It spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, direct contact with infected individuals, and touching contaminated surfaces.

15:08 IST

"I don't think we should be pressing the panic button, because HMPV is not a new virus, it already exists. Reports suggest that it is the first case of HMPV in India, it is not true because HMPV is an existing virus, and a certain percentage of people do get affected by this virus and it is not something new," state Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said.

14:40 IST

Symptoms of HMPV:

• Cough
• Fever
• Nasal congestion
• Sore throat
• Shortness of breath

14:26 IST

The first case of HMPV has been reported in Gujarat. The first case was detected in a private hospital in Ahmedabad, where a 2-month-old baby was found to be infected with HMPV. The baby exhibited symptoms of cold and fever associated with the HMPV virus. The child has shown improvement and is now recovering with treatment at the private hospital. The HMPV report from the private laboratory came back positive. The baby is from a family near Modasa. The child was brought to Ahmedabad when their condition worsened.

14:11 IST

HMPV Now In Gujarat, After Bengaluru!

Health Minister Rishikesh Patel had stated that there is no HMPV virus in Gujarat, but just after that, the first case has been reported in the state. The HMPV virus has now entered Gujarat, with the first case being recorded here. This brings the total number of cases in the country to three. Two cases were reported today in Bengaluru, and the third case has been detected in Gujarat.

14:07 IST

#BreakingNews | गुजरात में HMP वायरस का नया केस मिला, 2 महीने का बच्चा HMP वायरस से संक्रमित #HMPV #HMPvirus #HMPVoutbreak #Gujarat @_poojaLive pic.twitter.com/eIVRWs5nk2

— Zee News (@ZeeNews) January 6, 2025

14:03 IST

A new case of the HMPV has been reported in Gujarat, with a 2-month-old baby being infected by the HMPV.

13:45 IST

Stock Market Down Following HMPV Outbreak

Stock market witnessed a massive plunge amid concerns over the detection of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in India with both equity indices falling 1 percent. All sectoral indices were trading in the red in the afternoon trade. Nifty PSU Bank was trading in the red with a decline of more than 3 per cent. Auto, metal, reality and media sectors were down by more than 2 per cent.

13:36 IST

Check Don'ts

1. Reuse of tissue paper and handkerchief.
2. Close contact with sick people, sharing of towels, linen etc.
3. Frequent touching of eyes, nose and mouth.
4. Spitting in public places.
5. Self-medication without consulting the physician.

13:31 IST

Dos:

1. Cover your mouth and nose with handkerchief or tissue paper, when you cough or sneeze.
2. Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizer.
3. Avoid crowded places.
4. Stay away from public places if you have fever, cough and sneezing.
5. Adequate ventilation with outdoor air is recommended in all settings to reduce the transmission.
6. Stay at home and limit contact with others if you are sick.
7. Drink plenty of water and eat nutritious food.

13:31 IST

The Government of Karnataka, Department of Health and Family Services issued a press release following the reports of the HMPV virus in Bengaluru, outlining essential dos and don'ts to prevent the spread of infection. Take a look at Dos and Don'ts:

13:25 IST

Symptoms of HMPV:

Symptoms of HMPV include cough, fever, nasal congestion, shortness of breath, and sore throat. These typically appear three to six days after exposure to the virus. In severe cases, HMPV infection may require hospitalization.

13:20 IST

When Was HMPV first case identified?

HMPV, initially identified in 2001, is a respiratory infection that leads to flu-like symptoms. While it can affect individuals of all ages, young children (under 5 years), older adults, and those with compromised immune systems are at greater risk.

13:15 IST

The World Health Organization (WHO) has been providing regular updates on the situation in China to inform public health measures. Meanwhile, Following the recent reports of an outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China, Kerala Health Minister Veena George on advised the elderly and pregnant women to wear masks, adding there is no need to panic as of now.

13:14 IST

HMPV in India Live:Who is at a higher risk?

Young children, elderly individuals, and those with compromised immune systems are more vulnerable to developing severe illness from HMPV.

13:11 IST

Earlier, an eight-month-old male infant with a similar history of bronchopneumonia tested positive for HMPV on January 3 after being admitted to the same hospital. He is currently recovering, the ministry stated.

13:04 IST

A three-month-old female infant with a history of bronchopneumonia was diagnosed with HMPV after being admitted to Baptist Hospital in Bengaluru and has since been discharged, according to the ministry.