HMPV Case in Maharashtra: Mumbai reports first case; 6-month-old child tests positive for the virus

A six-month-old baby admitted to a hospital's intensive care unit last week tested positive for the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), which has been in the news after Chinese authorities reported a surge in cases in Beijing. With this, the total cases in Maharashtra now stand at 3.

Doctors at Hiranandani Hospital in Powai on Tuesday told TOI that they notified the local civic office about the HMPV case confirmed on Jan 1, but BMC health officials at the civic health headquarters, which is in Parel, said they had not yet received any such report.

Also Read: Worried about HMPV? What you should know about this rapidly spreading respiratory virust HMPV

Centre's response to HMPV

Health Minister JP Nadda has reassured the public that health systems and surveillance networks are vigilant and ready to respond promptly to any health challenges.

In a video statement, the health minister said that there is no reason to worry and that the government is closely monitoring the situation.

Also Read:HMPV Key symptoms parents should watch for in children

"Health experts have clarified that HMPV is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001... HMPV spreads through the air and can affect people of all age groups. The virus spreads more during the winter and early spring months," Nadda said.

He also mentioned that the government is closely monitoring the situation, with the ICMR and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) keeping track of developments and ensuring the country's preparedness to handle any emerging health challenges.

Read More: HMPV in India: State governments call for calm amid rising number of cases

"The World Health Organisation (WHO) has taken cognisance of the situation and will share its report with us shortly. The country data for respiratory viruses available with ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program has also been reviewed, and no surge in any common respiratory viral pathogens has been observed in India. A joint monitoring group meeting was held under the chairmanship of the Director General for Health Services on January 4 to review the situation," Nadda said.

"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," he added.

What is HMPV?

Human metapneumovirus is one of the many respiratory viruses that can cause infections in people of all ages, particularly during the winter and early spring months.

The infection is usually a mild and self-limiting condition and most cases recover on their own, according to doctors.

The Centre has advised states to step up surveillance for respiratory illnesses, including ILI and SARI, and spread awareness about the prevention of transmission of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) after five cases were detected in India.

(With TOI inputs)