HMPV virus in India: Infants detected with virus had no travel history; know why kids are more vulnerable

India reports a total of seven cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection in children, two each in Karnataka, Nagpur, and Tamil Nadu, and one in Ahmedabad on Monday.

Amid a surge in a cocktail of respiratory illnesses in China, the sudden rise of the HMPV virus in India has raised concerns. However, Union Health Minister JP Nadda assured on Monday that the virus is not something new, and the situation does not indicate the onset of another outbreak similar to the COVID-19 one.

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not a new virus and has been circulating globally for many years.

The health systems and surveillance networks of the country remain vigilant, ensuring the country is ready to respond promptly to any emerging health challenges. There is no cause¡­ pic.twitter.com/IN1o5N38dq

¡ª Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) January 6, 2025

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the eight-month-old and the 3-month-old infant and the other reported cases had no travel history, and despite that, they were diagnosed with human metapneumovirus. However, the Union Health Ministry as well as the state governments are closely monitoring the situation.

HMPV virus was first detected in 2001 as a respiratory infection that mimics flu-like symptoms. The virus is currently affecting people across all age groups, but it mostly targets kids. But why are only children vulnerable to the virus?

HMPV virus in India: What makes kids vulnerable to the virus

The human metapneumovirus is a type of respiratory virus that can cause serious illness, especially in young children. ¡°Apart from children, HMPV also targets older adults and individuals with weak immunity,¡± says Dr. Renu Soni, MD (Respiratory Medicine), Consultant Pulmonologist, NIIMS Medical College, Greater Noida.

Children are more vulnerable to HMPV viruses because their immune systems are still developing. Dr. Nasiruddin G, Consultant-Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road, explains, ¡°Their immune cells are still maturing, and they lack exposure to various environmental factors that adults have already encountered. This imposes a significant challenge on their immune system to combat viral infections, making kids more susceptible to HMPV viruses.¡±

? #Breaking
?PRESS RELEASE REGARDING #HMPV

One must be prepared for any ill effects of virus.

At present the situation appears to be under control and there is no need to panic!

But @MoHFW_INDIA must take presumptive actions.@PMOIndia @JPNadda @DghsIndia @ANI @PTI_News pic.twitter.com/x82zoAEj6t

¡ª FAIMA Doctors Association (@FAIMA_INDIA_) January 6, 2025

Risk of HMPV in children

Kids are more likely to get affected by this particular virus. They are vulnerable to HMPV because their immune system is not fully developed yet. This makes it harder for their bodies to combat infections. According to Dr. Amit Gupta, Senior Neonatologist & Paediatrician, at Motherhood Hospitals, Noida, "Children is often in close contact with others in schools, classes, daycare, or playgrounds, which significantly increases the chances of contracting this virus. This virus can easily spread through, coughing, sneezing, or touching surfaces that are contaminated. This is why it becomes crucial for parents to take utmost care of their little ones to protect them against the HMPV virus."

"This can be achieved by encouraging hygiene practices at home and also while going outdoors. Teach them to wash their hands frequently. Other preventive measures can include using a tissue or handkerchief while coughing or sneezing (dispose of the used tissues), eating meals that are rich in essential nutrients to boost their immunity, and avoiding exposure to those who are sick. Breastfeeding is important and provides natural immunity," adds Dr. Gupta.

Is the HMPV virus more lethal than COVID-19?

Talking about the death rates, the HMPV virus significantly causes lower respiratory tract infections, less lethal than COVID-19. According to Dr. Soni, ¡°Extremely rare instead is the evolving, invariably serious HMPV infection leading to a rare kind of pneumonia among higher-risk people.

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