ICMR Detects Two Human Metapneumovirus Cases in Karnataka; No Unusual Surge in Respiratory Illnesses Reported

Bengaluru: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has confirmed two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka, identified through routine surveillance of respiratory illnesses. The cases involve two infants from Bengaluru, both of whom are now recovering.

The first case was a three-month-old female infant diagnosed with HMPV after being admitted to Baptist Hospital, Bengaluru, with a history of bronchopneumonia. She has since been discharged.

The second case was an eight-month-old male infant who tested positive for HMPV on January 3, 2025. The infant was also admitted to Baptist Hospital with bronchopneumonia and is now on the path to recovery.

Neither of the infants has a history of international travel, indicating local transmission of the virus.

HMPV is a respiratory virus known to cause illnesses such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections. It has been in global circulation, including in India, for several years. According to the ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), there has been no unusual surge in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases in the country.

The Union Health Ministry has assured the public that it is closely monitoring the situation. The ICMR will continue tracking HMPV trends as part of its year-round surveillance efforts, and the World Health Organization (WHO) is providing updates on respiratory illness trends globally, including developments in China.

The Ministry also highlighted India’s preparedness to handle any potential increase in respiratory illnesses. A recently conducted nationwide preparedness drill has confirmed that healthcare systems are equipped to deploy public health interventions promptly if required.

Health officials have urged the public not to panic, emphasizing that HMPV cases are not new and are part of routine surveillance. There is no evidence of an unusual rise in respiratory illness cases, and the healthcare infrastructure is ready to manage any potential outbreaks.