As of January 12, 2025, 17 cases of HMPV were confirmed across various states, including Karnataka and Gujarat. Notably, two infants in Bengaluru were among the first reported cases; both had histories of bronchopneumonia and have since recovered  Representative Image: Pexels
Medicine

90 HMPV Cases Reported in India Till February: Health Ministry

Two deaths and 88 recoveries have been reported so far...

MBT Desk

As per information presented in the Lok Sabha, 90 cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) have been recorded in India till February 27, 2025. Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav confirmed in a written reply that two patients have died, while the remaining 88 have recovered and been discharged after treatment.

A total of 90 cases of HMPV and 2 deaths (died due to comorbidities) have been reported in India during the period January 6 to February 27, 2025. A total of 88 cases have been discharged after the treatment.
Prataprao Jadhav, Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare

HMPV is a relatively obscure respiratory virus that may lead to mild to moderate respiratory illness. The two deaths reported are due to underlying comorbidities and not the virus.

HMPV: Symptoms and Risks
HMPV was first detected in 2001 and is just one of several respiratory viruses that infect individuals of all ages. It is most active during the winter and early spring months, as with influenza and other respiratory viruses. HMPV symptoms mimic those of the common cold and include: Cough, Runny nose, Fever, Sore throat and Shortness of breath

In most individuals, the infection is mild and self-limiting, i.e., it resolves without treatment. However, in the elderly, infants, and those with compromised immunity or chronic disease, HMPV can result in severe complications, such as pneumonia and bronchitis.

HMPV represents about 5% of the causes of pneumonia and upper respiratory infections. The virus is prevalent among children under five years of age.

No unusual surge in respiratory illnesses

Notwithstanding fears of transmission of respiratory illnesses, the government assured the people that there has been no unprecedented rise in ILI or SARI cases throughout the nation.

As per Minister Jadhav, statistics by the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Sentinel Surveillance indicate that HMPV cases are reported within the seasonal patterns.

Government action and containment strategies

The Health Ministry has been proactively monitoring and containing the infection spread of HMPV with efforts such as:

  • Surveillance programs to identify trends in infections.

  • Public education campaigns to create awareness about symptoms and precautions regarding HMPV.

  • Hygiene practice guidelines include frequent hand washing, mask usage in public, and avoiding physical contact with those infected.


Precaution to be taken: 

Although HMPV is not considered as severe as influenza or COVID-19, doctors and health specialists advise that individuals, especially those in high-risk categories, take precautions and consult their doctors if they experience chronic or serious respiratory distress.

The government is said to be monitoring the situation and recommends that the public take basic precautions to decrease the risk of infection.

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