The first case of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been reported in Mumbai. This virus has been confirmed in a six-month-old girl admitted in the ICU of Hiranandani Hospital, Powai. With this the total number of HMPV cases in Maharashtra has increased to three.
First case of HMPV in Mumbai
- Which one was confirmed?
- A six-month-old baby girl, who is admitted in the ICU of Hiranandani Hospital.
- Officials were informed:
- Doctors reported the confirmed case of the virus to the local civic office on 1 January 2025.
- However, the health headquarters of BMC (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation) in Parel said that they have not received any report in this regard.
Two more cases in Nagpur
- A private hospital in Nagpur confirmed HMPV virus in two girls aged 7 and 13.
- symptoms:
- Both the girls had fever and cough for two consecutive days.
- He was treated at home and is now stable.
- Samples sent:
- The girls’ samples were sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV).
- Officials’ statement:
- Dr. Avinash Gawande, Superintendent of Nagpur Medical College, said,
“HMPV is not as dangerous as Corona. Parents do not need to panic. However, children are advised to wear masks.”
- Dr. Avinash Gawande, Superintendent of Nagpur Medical College, said,
HMPV Test and Symptoms
- New Rapid Test:
- Rapid tests are available to detect HMPV, which cost around ₹7,000.
- This test can identify viruses like influenza within a few hours.
- symptoms:
- Cough, fever, difficulty in breathing.
- Monitoring has been increased on the increasing number of patients suffering from cold, cough and fever.
Maharashtra government’s action
- Formation of Task Force:
- A task force has been formed under the chairmanship of Dr. Pallavi Sapley, Dean of JJ Hospital.
- It will prepare Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).
- Alert at district level:
- The Health Department has directed to increase monitoring of cold and cough patients.
- Emergency meeting:
- Maharashtra Health Minister Prakash Ambedkar called an emergency meeting on the rising cases of HMPV.
- Union Minister of State for Health Prataprao Jadhav will also attend the meeting.
BMC preparation
- Special Ward:
- The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has set up special wards for the treatment of HMPV patients.
- CM’s statement:
- Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said:
“There is no need to fear the HMPV virus. This virus is not new, it was prevalent earlier also and now it is making a comeback.”
- Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said:
Central government’s stance
- Advisory will be issued:
- States will be advised to share only official information.
- Instructions have been given to avoid any kind of rumours.
HMPV: What is this virus?
- HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) is a respiratory virus that usually affects children and the elderly.
- It has been prevalent for decades, but its increasing cases in China have brought it into discussion.
- Symptoms are mild, but in some cases it can be severe.
