Human metapneumovirus (HMPV), first identified in the Netherlands in 2001, is a flu-like virus that causes mild respiratory infections. It spreads through direct person-to-person contact or by touching contaminated surfaces.
In recent weeks, HMPV’s spread in China has sparked widespread concern, with memories of the COVID-19 pandemic still fresh. The hashtag Lockdown trended for days on social media, reflecting public anxiety.
HMPV primarily affects children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. While symptoms for most people include cough, fever, and a blocked nose, children under two years old are particularly at risk.
Like many respiratory viruses, HMPV thrives during late winter and spring when colder temperatures and closed indoor spaces facilitate transmission. Northern China, currently experiencing a spike in HMPV cases, is expected to see low temperatures persist until March. Other northern hemisphere nations, including the US, are also reporting rising infection rates.
India has reported 17 cases of HMPV so far. The breakdown of cases is as follows: Gujarat has reported the most cases, 5 cases as of now. Maharashtra and West Bengal reported 3 cases. Southern states, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have reported 2 cases. Assam and Puducherry reported 1 case each.
While most infections remain mild, health authorities worldwide are keeping a close watch on developments.
Stay tuned for latest updates.
Cases of flu-like human metapneumovirus infection (HMPV) in northern China are falling, a health official confirmed on Sunday as the world has continued to be apprehensive of its possible causes of pandemic. China Center for Disease Control and Prevention research scientist Wang Liping addressed the situation during a press briefing from China’s National Health Commission. According to Wang, human metapneumovirus is not a new virus; it has existed with humans for decades. Wang said the first identification of this virus was found in the Netherlands in 2001.
Two new cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) were reported in Gujarat on Saturday, raising the total infections to five within a week. A nine-month-old boy from Ahmedabad and a 59-year-old man from Kutch, both without travel history, were confirmed infected. Now in Gujarat, the number has risen to 5.
World
India
