While the world is still horrified with the memories of COVID, it seems a new medical emergency is in the making and China is yet again at the epicenter of this. After an emergency was reportedly declared in multiple cities in China due to an explosion of HMPV cases, it seems like the virus has now entered India. On 6th January, two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) were reportedly detected in Bengaluru. Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a virus that causes symptoms similar to the common cold. It usually causes upper respiratory infections. However, it can sometimes cause lower respiratory infections like pneumonia, asthma flare-ups or make chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) worse. HMPV infections are more common in the winter.
After two babies tested positive for HMPV, Gujarat has reported its first case in Ahmedabad. As per reports, a third case has been reported in Gujarat's Ahmedabad, where a two-month-old baby has been diagnosed with the virus.
It is pertinent to mention here that after the detection of the HPMV Virus in two infants in India, the Health Ministry issued a statement and clarified that the patients do not have a history of international travel. The ministry said, "It is emphasized that HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India, and cases of respiratory illnesses associated with HMPV have been reported in various countries. Furthermore, based on current data from ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) network, there has been no unusual surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases in the country. It is important to note that neither of the affected patients have any history of international travel.”
Delhi issues advisory over HMPV in India
Dr. Vandana Bagga, Director General of Health Services in Delhi, convened a high-level meeting on Sunday with chief district medical officers and the state Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) officer.
- Enhancing surveillance of respiratory illness in hospitals and community health centers.
- Establishing isolation wards for suspected cases.
- Ensuring adequate stock of personal protective equipment (PPE), oxygen supplies, and antiviral medications
- Launching public awareness campaigns about preventive measures such as wearing masks, practicing hand hygiene, and avoiding crowded places
China New Virus: HPMV
Talking about HPMV symptoms, patients show symptoms like cold and COVID-19. Children under 2 years of age are most affected. According to China's Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), its symptoms include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and wheezing in the throat. Apart from HMPV, cases of Influenza A, Mycoplasma Pneumonia, and COVID-19 are also coming up. The number of its patients has increased continuously.
As per reports, China has declared an emergency in many places after the spread of the virus. According to the claim, the crowd is increasing in hospitals and crematoriums. However, no such information has been given by China. According to The Star report, the CDC has said that patients already suffering from diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are at a higher risk of infection.