India Monitors HMPV Outbreak in China, No Alarm

Why in the news?

The Union Health Ministry is monitoring the surge in Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in China, particularly affecting children. India has not reported any unusual spike in respiratory illnesses, and authorities reassure there is no immediate cause for concern.

India Monitors HMPV Outbreak in China, No Alarm

HMPV Outbreak in China:

  • The Union Health Ministry is closely monitoring the rise in Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in China, particularly in children under 14 years old.
  • China has reported a surge in respiratory illnesses, including HMPV, which causes symptoms like cough, fever, and shortness of breath. Complications can include bronchitis and pneumonia.
  • The outbreak is mainly concentrated in China’s northern provinces.

India’s Situation:

  • No unusual spike in respiratory illnesses or HMPV cases has been reported in India.
  • The Ministry’s National Centre for Disease Control is closely tracking seasonal influenza and respiratory cases across the country.
  • India’s hospitals are well-equipped to handle respiratory diseases, and no specific antiviral treatment for HMPV is needed, as it typically resolves on its own.
  • Director-General of Health Services, Atul Goel, confirmed that there is no immediate cause for alarm, highlighting that flu-like respiratory symptoms are common in winter.

About HMPV :

  • HMPV was discovered in 2001 and belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, like Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
  • The virus causes upper and lower respiratory infections, particularly affecting young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
  • HMPV spreads through respiratory secretions and close personal contact. The incubation period is 3-6 days, and symptoms can range from mild to severe respiratory issues.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times