The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that the rise in Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in China is "entirely expected" during the winter season.
WHO official Margaret Harris stated that the rise in common respiratory infections during winter is "entirely expected," noting that the pathogens causing the disease are "known ones."
HMPV cases in India
India has reported a total of nine confirmed cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) as of January 9, 2025. The latest case involves an eight-year-old boy from Himatnagar, Gujarat, who is currently receiving ventilator support. Earlier this month, a two-month-old infant in Gujarat was also diagnosed with HMPV.
In India, HMPV cases have been reported in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Delhi. Health authorities have intensified surveillance and issued guidelines to manage the situation effectively. Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan stated, "No surge in the country of respiratory illness; sturdy surveillance to detect such cases."
Former WHO chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan emphasised that tracking HMPV cases in India is "meaningless," as the virus has been circulating for years.
Health Minister JP Nadda reassured the public that HMPV is not a new virus and urged people to take precautions as viral infections are on the rise during the winter.
In India, Maharashtra Health Minister Prakash Abitkar echoed this sentiment, assuring, "We have dealt with problematic viruses like corona. Our health department is working efficiently. No one has to worry."
The Jammu and Kashmir Health Department also addressed concerns, stating, "There is no need to panic. The entire machinery is fully geared up to deal with any situation."
HMPV spreads via person-to-person contact or touching contaminated surfaces. Common symptoms include coughing, fever, and a blocked nose, which are similar to many types of cold and flu.
According to WHO, it has not observed any unusual outbreak patterns, confirming that the Chinese health system is handling the situation effectively.
"The rise in HMPV cases, along with influenza, rhinovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), is typical for this time of year," the WHO said in a statement.
Health officials in both China and India have advises the public to follow standard preventive measures, such as regular handwashing and avoiding close contact with individuals showing respiratory symptoms.
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