80-Year-Old Ahmedabad Man Tested Positive For HMPV Virus; Second Case Reported In Gujarat

On January 9, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, a significant health development occurred as an 80-year-old man was diagnosed with the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), marking a rare instance of this infection in the elderly in India. This individual is currently under care at a private healthcare facility, notably without any prior international travel, according to the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC). Following symptoms indicative of HMPV, he was admitted to the hospital on January 8, where subsequent tests confirmed the infection. Fortunately, his health status is now stable.

This case of HMPV in an elderly patient represents the second reported instance in Gujarat, demonstrating the virus's presence within the region. The first case emerged on January 6, involving a two-month-old infant from Rajasthan who has since recovered and been released from the hospital. Furthermore, a potential case involving an eight-year-old from Himmatnagar town in Sabarkantha district is under review, with the child, currently in critical care and on a ventilator, awaiting confirmation of the infection. The child's blood sample has been sent to a government hospital for further analysis.

The human metapneumovirus, discovered in 2001 and part of the Paramyxoviridae family, is known for its transmission through respiratory droplets, direct contact with infected persons, or interaction with contaminated surfaces. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently addressed the HMPV outbreak, which has significantly impacted China and been observed in various other countries. In her statement, WHO's Margaret Harris clarified that "Human metapneumovirus, hMPV is not a new virus," emphasizing its typical circulation during the colder seasons and its association with respiratory symptoms similar to those of the common cold.

The WHO's commentary provides valuable context on the nature of HMPV, underlining its commonality and seasonal pattern, which aligns with the timing of the recent cases in Gujarat.