Amid rising concerns over the detection of three cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in India, Health Minister JP Nadda reassured the public on Monday that there was no reason to panic, emphasizing that the virus is not new.
In a video message addressing the growing fears, particularly in light of widespread chatter on social media and the trending hashtag #lockdown, Nadda explained that HMPV has been in circulation for many years. He noted that the virus, which was first identified in 2001, is a common respiratory pathogen and not a cause for alarm.
"Health experts have clarified that HMPV is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001, and it has been circulating globally for many years. HMPV spreads through the air via respiration and can affect people of all age groups. The virus typically spreads more during the winter and early spring months," Nadda said, urging the public to remain calm.
The Health Minister added that the government is actively monitoring the situation. ?The Health Ministry, along with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Centre for Disease Control, is closely monitoring the situation, especially in neighboring countries and regions where cases have been reported,? he said. Nadda also confirmed that the World Health Organization (WHO) is aware of the situation and will release its report soon.
India's first confirmed cases of HMPV were reported on Monday, with two cases in Bengaluru, Karnataka, and one in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The three individuals, including infants, were hospitalized and are reportedly stable.
HMPV is a common respiratory virus that causes cold-like symptoms, including a runny nose, cough, and fever. While it generally results in mild illness in most adults, it can cause more severe symptoms in infants and those with weakened immune systems. Studies show that HMPV is responsible for 4-16% of acute respiratory infections globally, particularly between November and May, coinciding with colder weather.
"While most adults have immunity from prior exposure, the virus can be more dangerous for infants encountering it for the first time, as well as for individuals with compromised immune systems," Nadda explained.
