Times of India reported on Monday that two infants in India have been diagnosed with Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a severe respiratory infection. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) confirmed cases involving a three-month-old girl and an eight-month-old boy in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
The ICMR stated that the three-month-old girl was diagnosed with pneumonia, received treatment, and has since been discharged. The eight-month-old boy is currently recovering. As neither child’s parents had recently traveled abroad, experts suspect these are cases of domestic transmission. HMPV primarily affects infants and young children. Common symptoms include fever, cough, phlegm, runny nose, and nasal congestion.
The ICMR emphasized that HMPV is prevalent in India and worldwide, suggesting that the increase in cases is not unusual. Treatment typically involves symptomatic care, including antipyretics and fluid therapy.
Indian media outlets have also reported a surge in HMPV cases in China, leading to overcrowded hospitals. In response, Vietnamese health authorities announced they are closely monitoring the situation in China.
The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention announced last month that influenza and HMPV detection rates are increasing, particularly in northern regions. HMPV is a common virus that causes acute respiratory infections, typically peaking during winter and spring.
Cambodian health authorities have also issued warnings about HMPV as winter approaches. HMPV is not a new virus; it was first identified in the Netherlands in 2001. Cambodia previously reported HMPV infections among children from 2007 to 2009.
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