Surveillance System Robust, No Unusual Surge: Centre on HMPV Cases

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has confirmed the detection of two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka through routine surveillance by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

The cases, identified as part of ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses, involve two infants admitted to a Bengaluru hospital with bronchopneumonia.

A three-month-old female infant, diagnosed with HMPV, has been discharged after successful treatment, while an eight-month-old male infant is currently recovering. Neither child has a history of international travel, emphasising the local circulation of HMPV.

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The ministry reassured the public that HMPV, a globally circulating pathogen, is not causing an unusual increase in respiratory illnesses. Data from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and ICMR indicate no significant surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases across India.

The Union Health Ministry, in coordination with the World Health Organisation (WHO), continues to monitor the situation closely, a statement said. Preparedness drills conducted nationwide have demonstrated India’s readiness to address any potential rise in respiratory illnesses, it added.

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The ICMR remains vigilant, tracking HMPV trends throughout the year, while WHO updates on the situation in other countries, including China, inform ongoing public health measures. The ministry emphasised that India’s surveillance system is robust and capable of prompt intervention if required.