Udaipur, January 7, 2025 - A respiratory virus called HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) is spreading rapidly in China. Indian health authorities are closely monitoring the situation as cases have been reported in the country.

HMPV Cases in India

India has reported seven HMPV cases so far. The latest case is a 2-month-old baby from Rajasthan’s Dungarpur, treated in Ahmedabad. The infant, who had severe respiratory symptoms, is now stable and in isolation.

Earlier, two infants in Karnataka were diagnosed with HMPV. Both are recovering at Bengaluru's Baptist Hospital. Cases have also been reported in Tamil Nadu and Nagpur, Maharashtra.

The government has urged caution and directed district collectors to assess hospital arrangements. This includes reviewing resources such as oxygen plants, ventilators, beds, PPE kits, medicines, and other essential supplies.

Udaipur's RNT Preparations

In Udaipur, the RNT Medical College and Hospital is already equipped with a Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (VRDL) for testing the virus. The hospital management is fully prepared. Dr. RL Suman, the Superintendent of MB Hospital, mentioned that 45 beds have been reserved at the Infectious Disease Center specifically for patients with such illnesses. Only patients with these conditions are admitted. Special care will be provided to children visiting the hospital, and all doctors will take extra precautions. The Children's Hospital has set up a 10-bed emergency isolation ward. The general public is advised not to panic but to take necessary precautions. If any symptoms appear, individuals should consult a doctor at the hospital.

Health Department on Alert in Rajasthan

Rajasthan’s Medical and Health Department has issued an advisory for the winter season. Special precautions are advised for pregnant women, infants, and the elderly. Authorities are conducting surveys in the infected child’s village to detect further cases.

Experts Advise Precaution, Not Panic

• Wearing masks in crowded places.
• Washing hands regularly.
• Covering the mouth and nose while sneezing or coughing.

Doctors say HMPV is not a new virus in India and often causes mild flu-like symptoms. It spreads through respiratory droplets in the air.

India’s Preparedness

Indian health authorities, including the National Center for Disease Control (NCDC), are monitoring respiratory infections. Atul Goel, Director-General of Health Services, confirmed that hospitals in India are well-prepared with enough beds and oxygen supplies.

"Health experts clarify that it is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001 and it has been circulating in the entire world from many years." 

In Bengal, health officials are coordinating with the central government to ensure readiness for any rise in cases.

No Need for Concern Yet

Although HMPV is spreading in China, there is no major surge in India. Experts say it is too early to draw conclusions, but the situation is under control. 

HMPV Virus in China

HMPV cases are rising in China, with reports of overcrowded hospitals and overwhelmed crematories. Videos on social media show crowded hospitals where multiple viruses, including influenza A, COVID, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and HMPV, are circulating together.

Source: Media Reports