India has reported five cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), primarily affecting infants and toddlers, causing concern among the public. Former AIIMS Chief Dr. Randeep Guleria has reassured people, emphasizing that HMPV causes mild infections and does not require antibiotics. States like Gujarat, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu have initiated precautionary measures to manage the situation.

HMPV cases surfaced earlier this week, coinciding with reports of respiratory outbreaks in China. The virus, first identified in 2001, spreads through respiratory droplets and is most active during winter and early spring. Despite the timing, health experts stress that this is not a new virus and urge the public to remain calm.

Dr. Randeep Guleria highlighted that HMPV infections are generally self-limiting and can be managed with proper hydration, nutrition, and adherence to hygiene practices. He advised against using antibiotics and suggested implementing COVID-appropriate behavior, such as wearing masks, practicing cough etiquette, and avoiding crowded places. He also recommended that schools issue advisories encouraging parents to keep symptomatic children at home to prevent the spread of the virus to vulnerable groups, including the elderly.

Union Health Minister JP Nadda assured the public that the Health Ministry, Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR), and National Centre for Disease Control are monitoring the situation in India and neighboring countries closely. He stated that HMPV has been circulating globally for years and affects individuals across all age groups.

The World Health Organization (WHO) also addressed the situation, confirming no unusual outbreak patterns in China. WHO acknowledged an increase in respiratory infections, including HMPV, in line with seasonal trends during winter in the Northern Hemisphere. The organization is in contact with Chinese health authorities and continues to monitor developments.

State-Level Responses

• Gujarat: Isolation wards have been set up in civil hospitals in Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad, and Rajkot. Ahmedabad Civil Hospital has established a 15-bed isolation ward, and testing kits have been procured to detect the virus. Civil Superintendent Dr. Rakesh Joshi confirmed that treatment will be symptom-based due to the lack of specific vaccines or medicines for HMPV.
• Karnataka: The first cases in India were identified in two infants in Bengaluru. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah emphasized that HMPV is not dangerous but urged caution. He reassured citizens that the virus is manageable and not linked to the respiratory outbreak reported in China.
• Tamil Nadu: Health Minister Ma Subramanian noted that the virus has not caused significant impact in the state. He advised the public to follow safety measures like wearing masks, maintaining hand hygiene, and practicing social distancing.
• Maharashtra: A task force, led by JJ Hospital Dean Dr. Pallavi Saple, has been formed to draft a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for effectively managing HMPV cases.
• Odisha: Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling reassured the public that the state is well-prepared to handle HMPV cases. He confirmed that healthcare facilities are ready to assist both residents and visitors during events like the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas.

Other states, including Jharkhand, Bihar, and Chandigarh, have also confirmed their readiness to respond to any potential rise in cases.

Health officials nationwide continue to emphasize the importance of preventive measures and timely action, urging the public to remain vigilant but not alarmed.