Maharashtra Issues Advisory Amid Rising HMPV Cases in India
Health officials urge symptomatic individuals to avoid public places as Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases emerge in Bengaluru and Ahmedabad
Mumbai: In response to a surge in cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections, the Maharashtra government issued a health advisory on Monday, urging citizens to adopt preventive measures. The move comes after two HMPV cases were confirmed in Bengaluru and another in Ahmedabad, raising public health concerns.
Earlier, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) confirmed two cases of HMPV in Karnataka through its routine surveillance for respiratory viral pathogens. The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is closely monitoring the situation, with inputs from the World Health Organization (WHO).
Details of Reported Cases
In Bengaluru, a three-month-old female infant with a history of bronchopneumonia was diagnosed with HMPV at Baptist Hospital. Meanwhile, Ahmedabad reported its first case involving a two-month-old boy from Dungarpur, Rajasthan, admitted to a private hospital in Chandkheda locality on December 24. The infant presented symptoms of respiratory infection before testing positive for HMPV.
Preventive Measures Announced by Maharashtra Health Department
The Maharashtra health department’s advisory emphasizes the following precautions:
- Cover mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
- Avoid crowded public places if experiencing respiratory symptoms.
Health department officials reiterated that there is no immediate cause for alarm, noting that reports from China are being carefully monitored. The advisory stresses that the situation is under constant observation in collaboration with the National Centre for Disease Control and the Union Ministry of Health.
About Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)
HMPV is a common respiratory virus that affects the upper respiratory tract, presenting symptoms similar to a cold. It poses a significant health risk to young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems, particularly during the winter season. Severe cases can lead to bronchitis and pneumonia in vulnerable populations.
Health experts highlight the importance of early detection and adherence to preventive measures to mitigate the spread of HMPV.
