An eight-month-old child in Bengaluru has tested positive for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) amid a surge in cases reported in China. The child, who has no travel history, was admitted to a private hospital where tests confirmed the diagnosis. The Karnataka Health Department has informed the Union Health Ministry about the case, though it remains unclear whether the strain found in the child is the same as the one causing the outbreak in China.
In response to this case, Karnataka’s Health Minister has scheduled an emergency meeting with Ministry officials. While China has downplayed the rise in HMPV cases, attributing it to the “annual seasonal recurrence” during the winter months, health authorities are closely monitoring the situation. A spokesperson from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in India confirmed that the agency is in contact with international health bodies and is watching the development of the outbreak.
The HMPV, known to cause respiratory symptoms like the common cold, can be particularly concerning for the very young and elderly. Dr. Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services, advised the public to take general precautions against respiratory infections, such as avoiding close contact with those showing symptoms and practicing good hygiene.
