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An infant admitted to the ICU last week in Mumbai has been confirmed as positive for Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), raising the total number of cases in India to eight.

The new case adds to the tally that already includes two cases in Bangalore, two in Chennai, two in Nagpur, and one in Ahmedabad. The latest case in Mumbai was identified at Hiranandani Hospital in Powai.

The hospital reportedly informed the local civic office on January 1 about the case, but the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) health officials have allegedly denied receiving any such information on that day.

What is HMPV?

HMPV, discovered in 2001, belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, which also includes the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). However, serological studies suggest that HMPV has been present in humans for more than 60 years and is widespread globally.

The virus can lead to both upper and lower respiratory diseases in individuals of all ages. It primarily affects young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. The incubation period for HMPV is typically between three to five days.

To prevent infection, experts recommend wearing masks, frequent handwashing, and strengthening immunity. However, experts are also cautioning against the use of antivirals for HMPV, as there is no vaccine currently available for the virus.

In a recent interview with state-backed National Business Daily, a respiratory expert at a hospital in Shanghai warned the public against using antiviral drugs to treat HMPV, as the virus’s symptoms closely resemble those of a common cold.

(With inputs from syndicated feed)

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