manaloplay HMPV Virus: Total Cases Rise To 10; Centre Says ‘No Reason To Worry’ | Key Updates

HMPV virus: Five Cases Reported In India; Centre Says ‘No Reason To Worry’ | Key Updates |Photo-Representative Image HMPV virus: Five Cases Reported In India; Centre Says ‘No Reason To Worry’ | Key Updates |Photo-Representative Image

India has reported Ten cases of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus that recently gained attention after its cases were reported in China. Public health experts, however, say the fear is overblown and the cases are part of typical flow of respiratory virus seasons.

The health ministry also assured people that there is no reason for alarm. In a statement, the ministry said the HMPV, first identified in 2001, is already in global circulation, including in India.

Top Points On HMPV VirusTen cases of HMPV:

The first two cases of HMPV virus in India were reported from Bengaluru on Monday. This includes a three month old baby, who has been discharged and an eight month old, who is recovering at a hospital. The third case of HMPV was confirmed in a two month old infant in Ahmedabad, who was admitted to the hospital on December 24 with symptoms of cold, cough and breathing difficulty.

Tamil Nadu has reported two cases of HMPV, one each in Chennai and Salem. No death due to HMPV have been reported in India so far. The India Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the top medical body, emphasised that the HMPV is already in 'circulation' globally, including in India.

Two more children, aged seven and 14, tested positive for the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Nagpur, increasing the total number of cases of the respiratory illness to 10.

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What Health Ministry Says:

Health officials, including Union Health Minister JP Nadda have, reassured the public that HMPV is not new and spreads through respiratory droplets, affecting people of all ages.

Nadda said in a video statement, "It was identified in 2001 and it has been circulating in the entire world for many years. The virus spreads more during the winter and the early spring months.

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"The Health Ministry, the ICMR and the National Centre for Disease Control are keeping a close watch on the situation in China as well as in the neighbouring countries," he added.

Read More | Health Ministry Says, 'India Is Well-Prepared', Monitoring Situation Amid HMPV Outbreak In China

He further said, "WHO has taken cognisance of the situation and will share its report shortly with us. The country data for respiratory viruses available with ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program has also been reviewed and no surge in any of the common respiratory viral pathogens is observed in India. Joint monitoring group meeting was held under the chairmanship of Director General for Health Services on 4th January to review the situation. The health systems and surveillance networks of the country remain vigilant, ensuring the country is ready to respond promptly to any emerging health challenges. There is no reason to worry."

dunia303 slot What Is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?

The human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common respiratory virus that typically causes mild cold-like symptoms. Studies show it has circulated in human populations since the 1970s, though it was first identified by scientists in 2001.

The virus accounts for 4-16% of acute respiratory infections globally, with cases usually peaking between November and May. While most adults have developed immunity through previous exposure, HMPV can cause more severe symptoms in infants encountering it for the first time and in people with weakened immune systems.

Signs And Symptoms Of HMPV:

HMPV infections typically present with mild symptoms, including, Cough, Runny nose or nasal congestion, Sore throat, Fever.

In children younger than 1 year of age, the elderly who have weak immune systems, HMPV can cause more than respiratory illness.

Who is at risk?

While anyone can contract HMPV, the virus is most concerning for young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems.

Children under the age of five are particularly vulnerablemanaloplay, with about 5-16% of cases potentially progressing to lower respiratory tract infections like pneumonia. Elderly and those with underlying health conditions may experience more severe symptoms as well.