HMPV Prevalence in India
Only 3% of people tested for Influenza-Like Illnesses (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illnesses (SARI) are found positive for the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), according to former World Health Organization (WHO) chief scientist Dr. Soumya Swaminathan. Despite its recent spotlight, HMPV has circulated in India for several years but often remains unnoticed due to limited discussion and testing.
In an interview with NDTV, Dr. Swaminathan explained that while the virus is not new, its emergence in news reports, especially alongside the recent outbreak in China, has sparked public concern. She emphasized that the infection is local to India and not linked to international transmission.
Government and Public Health Response
India has reported seven confirmed cases of HMPV across Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, with no travel history associated with the patients. The Union Health Ministry confirmed that the cases are part of ongoing respiratory virus trends rather than a new epidemic. Surveillance efforts by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) revealed that 3% of tested samples are HMPV-positive, while other respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, continue to contribute to infections.
Dr. Swaminathan dismissed the need to tally individual cases, stating that “counting 1, 2, or 3 cases is meaningless” given the routine presence of HMPV in the community. She highlighted that such counts often depend on the scope of testing conducted, which remains more prevalent in private healthcare than in government facilities.
Symptoms and Precautionary Measures
HMPV presents symptoms similar to the common cold or flu, making it less alarming for most individuals. However, high-risk groups, including children, older adults, and those with preexisting conditions like asthma or cardiac issues, should monitor for warning signs such as:
- Persistent breathlessness
- Incessant coughing
- Difficulty in eating or drinking (for children)
- Exacerbation of chronic conditions
Dr. Swaminathan urged people to adopt simple measures, such as wearing masks when symptomatic, practicing good hand hygiene, and staying hydrated. She also recommended seeking medical advice in cases of severe symptoms, such as prolonged coughing, fever, or breathlessness.
No Link to COVID-19
HMPV is a distinct respiratory virus unrelated to COVID-19. Dr. Swaminathan reassured that there is no evidence of new mutations or significant changes in the virus’s behavior, whether in India or globally.
Building Resilience in Public Healthcare
The rising attention to HMPV serves as a reminder of the need for robust public health systems. Dr. Swaminathan highlighted the importance of improving surveillance, genomic testing, and public health communication to prevent panic and foster better preparedness for future epidemics.
Combatting Respiratory Illnesses Rationally
Rather than creating panic, the focus should be on spreading awareness about preventive actions. As Dr. Swaminathan emphasized, “Let us educate ourselves on how to deal with this rationally.”
Simple steps, such as wearing masks, maintaining hygiene, and promptly addressing severe symptoms, can effectively manage HMPV and other respiratory viruses, ensuring public health safety.
