Rising HMPV cases in India spark health alert

New Delhi: Cases of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a virus that recently caused alarm in China, are steadily increasing in India, with three cases reported today. Two cases were identified in Bengaluru, Karnataka, and a suspected case has emerged in Gujarat.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) issued a warning, stating that HMPV has already spread across several countries, including India.

The Health Ministry, however, assured that the country is fully prepared to tackle the virus and is closely monitoring the situation.

In Bengaluru, the first case involved an 8-month-old baby currently undergoing treatment, while the second case, a 3-month-old girl, has been discharged from the hospital.

Both families confirmed no recent travel history, ruling out infection from other regions or countries.

The Health Ministry has sought updates from the World Health Organization (WHO) and reaffirmed its readiness to handle the outbreak. Authorities are urging vigilance to prevent further spread.