At least three cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), reported to have originated in China, have been detected in India.
The virus, which serves as a reminiscence of the Covid pandemic, has alerted governments globally, with Beijing raising concerns about a surge in respiratory infections that has led to overcrowded hospitals and overwhelmed health systems.
In Bengaluru, two infants were reported to have HMPV on Monday. They are a three-month-old girl and a six-month-old boy.
While the girl has a history of bronchopneumonia, the boy was admitted with symptoms of fever and breathlessness before testing positive for the virus.
In Gujarat, the virus was detected in a two-month-old boy, who was admitted to a private hospital in Ahmedabad on December 24 with symptoms of respiratory infection, news agency PTI reported quoting officials.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the HMPV belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, the same family as the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It typically causes upper and lower respiratory infections, presenting symptoms similar to a common cold or flu.
Authorities issue advisory
Delhi health authorities issued an advisory to ensure preparedness for potential health challenges linked to HMPV on Sunday.
According to a statement, Dr Vandana Bagga, Director General of Health Services, convened a meeting with chief district medical officers and the state program officer of IDSP on Sunday to discuss preparedness to address respiratory illnesses in Delhi.