HMPV Outbreak Reaches India: Cases Confirmed in Bengaluru

Two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus suspected to be contributing to a rise in infections in China, have been reported in Bengaluru, raising concerns about its potential spread. The cases were confirmed on Monday, prompting further investigation by health authorities.

One of the confirmed cases involves an eight-month-old child who tested positive for HMPV. Meanwhile, India Today reported that two cases were identified at a hospital in the city, highlighting the need for heightened surveillance.

Both cases were traced to Baptist Hospital in north Bengaluru, and neither of the patients has a history of international travel, ruling out any immediate connection to global transmission routes. The eight-month-old child is currently receiving treatment at a private hospital, and authorities are closely monitoring the situation.

The Karnataka Health Department confirmed the diagnosis, stating that the medical tests conducted had yielded positive results for HMPV. The cases have been formally communicated to the Union Health Ministry, which is now assessing the situation to determine further actions.

The Union Health Ministry has acknowledged the reports and stated that they are monitoring the development carefully. Officials emphasized that the cases were identified by a private hospital, and there is no reason to question the accuracy of the test results. However, authorities clarified that it is still uncertain whether this strain of HMPV is the same variant associated with the current surge in cases observed in China.

Health authorities are now focused on investigating the virus strain further and maintaining vigilant surveillance to prevent potential outbreaks, particularly as respiratory illnesses tend to increase during this time of the year.