Seven cases of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) They have been reported across India, with two cases each in Maharashtra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu and one case in Gujarat. Notably, all reported cases involve children.

Although the situation is being closely monitored, officials stressed that there is no cause for concern. Union Health Minister JP Nadda also assured citizens on Monday that HMPV is not a new virus, urging calm and vigilance.

What is HMPV?

HMPV is a respiratory virus Affects both the upper and lower respiratory tractDue to which symptoms like fever, cough, runny nose and sore throat arise which are similar to diseases like mild cold. However, severe cases can progress to bronchiolitis and pneumonia, especially in vulnerable groups such as infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised men and women.

Why are babies at risk?

Infants are particularly susceptible to hMPV because their immune systems have not yet been exposed to the virus. By the age of five, almost 100 percent of children exposed to hMPV develop immunity. However, infants lack this prior exposure, leaving them unprepared to effectively recognize and combat the virus. In severe cases, complications such as pneumonia may arise, underscoring the need for vigilance in this age group.

Why are the elderly also unsafe?

Despite lifetime exposure to hMPV, the elderly remain at risk due to immunosenescence, which is the natural decline in immune function with age.

This leads to slower recovery from infection, persistent inflammation, and increased susceptibility to bacterial complications. Chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and hypertension further increase their vulnerability, leading to increased morbidity and mortality in this demographic.

Is the tension related to China?

There are different types of hMPV, including A, B1, A2, and B2. Routine testing in India generally does not identify specific strains, making it unclear whether the strain here matches the one circulating in China.

Medical experts suggest increased testing to compare domestic data with global findings. So far, no significant evidence links hMPV cases in India to any specific foreign strain or indicates an epidemic.

Why the sudden panic now?

hMPV has been known for years, and testing capabilities in India have recently expanded with the availability of PCR/multiplex PCR tests. This has increased the identification of cases.

Experts say the impact of HMPV is similar to that of other respiratory viruses such as influenza and RSV, with only rare instances of severe illness reported.

The primary concern arises when the virus undergoes antigenic change, causing mutations that render existing immunity ineffective. Such developments, although hypothetical, could increase the risk.

(Dr. Krishna Chugh is Principal Director and HOD, Pediatrics (Pediatric Pulmonology) at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon)