ICMR Confirms Two HMPV Cases in Karnataka

On 6th January 2025, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) confirmed two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka, highlighting the effectiveness of India’s respiratory illness surveillance system.

Key Points

Virus Detection: Two infants in Karnataka were diagnosed with HMPV, a respiratory virus already in circulation globally.
Infant Cases: The first case involved a 3-month-old female diagnosed with bronchopneumonia, while the second case involved an 8-month-old male with similar symptoms.
No Travel History: Neither infant had a history of international travel, suggesting localized transmission of the virus.
Ongoing Surveillance: ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) continue to monitor the virus and its circulation across India.
No Surge in Respiratory Illnesses: Despite the detection of HMPV, there has been any unusual increase in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) nationwide.
Global Monitoring: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is closely following updates from the World Health Organization (WHO) to stay informed about global developments, including in China.
Public Health Assurance: Authorities have reassured the public that no immediate health threat is posed, with active surveillance and response mechanisms in place.