HMPV Cases In India Rise To 7 As 2 Children Test Positive In Maharashtra

India on Tuesday have reported two new cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) as two children, aged seven and 14, from Nagpur in Maharashtra have tested positive for the disease. Thus bringing the total number of reported cases in India to seven.

Shashikant Shambharkar, Deputy Director of Health, confirmed the cases, stating: "The two patients, aged 7 and 14, have tested positive for HMPV at a private hospital. Both have been treated and discharged. Their records are being forwarded to AIIMS Nagpur for further analysis."

Nationwide Cases and Health Monitoring

Gujarat has reported a two-month-old boy testing positive for the virus in Ahmedabad, while Bengaluru in Karnataka recorded two cases. Tamil Nadu has also reported two infections.

In light of the new cases, Maharashtra Health Minister Prakash Abitkar has convened an urgent meeting at St. George's Hospital Health Centre in Mumbai, with Union Minister of State for Health Prataprao Jadhav expected to participate.

Global and National Surveillance

Union Health Minister JP Nadda reassured citizens, emphasizing that HMPV is not a new virus, having been identified globally in 2001. He stated: "HMPV spreads through the air and can affect individuals of all age groups. It is more prevalent during the winter and early spring months. Health experts and the government are closely monitoring the situation."

The World Health Organization (WHO) has taken note of the situation and will soon provide a comprehensive report. In India, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) are actively monitoring respiratory virus trends. A joint monitoring group chaired by the Director General of Health Services convened on January 4 to review the findings.

Health Minister JP Nadda added: "Our health systems and surveillance networks are fully prepared. While we are taking this matter seriously, there is no cause for panic. The country remains vigilant and ready to respond to any health challenges promptly."