India reports 8 cases while Bhutan stays unaffected
On 4th January, China reported an increase in cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), triggering fears among the public that another pandemic, similar to COVID-19, might be starting.
The Ministry of Health of China confirmed the rise in cases, though no specific data on the number of infected individuals was provided. The announcement displayed global concerns as images of crowded hospitals in China circulated on social media, with many fearing that another COVID-19-like crisis was unfolding.
However, health experts quickly reassured the public, emphasizing that HMPV is not a new virus.
In a report published by The Scottish Sun on 9th January, the news agency highlighted the increase in cases in China, but it also stressed that while the virus is contagious, it is not as dangerous as initially feared.
“Experts stress that HMPV is not the next COVID-19. It’s part of the common respiratory viruses that emerge during the winter season. While the virus can cause flu-like symptoms, it is usually mild, and the general public need not fear another pandemic,” the article stated.
China Global Televison Network also said that HMPV is not a new virus. It has been circulating globally for over 60 years, though it was first identified in the early 2000s. Experts reassure that while cases are on the rise, HMPV follows typical seasonal patterns of respiratory viruses, and there is no indication that it poses a new pandemic threat.
Understanding HMPV and its symptoms
HMPV is a respiratory virus that can cause symptoms similar to the common cold or flu. These include cough, fever, runny nose, sore throat, and difficulty breathing.
Although many individuals experience mild symptoms, certain groups, such as young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems, are at greater risk of developing more serious respiratory conditions like pneumonia and bronchiolitis (lung infections that affect the small airways in the lungs).
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), HMPV is a common respiratory virus that circulates during winter in many countries, although not all nations routinely test and publish data on its prevalence.
In India, at least eight confirmed cases of HMPV infection have been reported as of 9th January, prompting the government to increase surveillance efforts, particularly in the states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Maharashtra, where the virus has been detected.
The Health Ministry of India has advised citizens to take precautionary measures, such as avoiding close contact with infected individuals, wearing masks, and practicing good hygiene to prevent further spread.
Bhutan has reported no active cases of HMPV as of now. According to the Ministry of Health, the country is maintaining a strong surveillance system to ensure that any potential cases of respiratory infections, including HMPV, are promptly identified.
The Royal Center for Disease Control (RCDC), under the Ministry of Health, is conducting continuous surveillance through Influenza-like illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI) in sentinel hospitals.
Currently, no active influenza outbreaks have been reported, and Bhutan’s diagnostic systems have detected cases of influenza and SARS-CoV-2 but not HMPV. The ministry has assured that, although there have been no reported cases of HMPV in the country, the situation remains under careful monitoring.
MoH also mentioned that Bhutan’s sentinel hospitals regularly send samples for testing to assess the presence of various respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and other common viruses like Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). During epidemiological weeks 50 and 51 (16th-29th December 2024), a total of 56 samples were received, with 11 cases of influenza and 3 cases of SARS-CoV-2 detected.
“No cases of HMPV were reported in these samples,” said MoH.
There is no specific vaccine for HMPV, making preventive measures essential. MoH informs the public that It is crucial to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands with soap and water and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing.
While HMPV does not currently pose a pandemic threat, MoH continues to monitor the evolving situation and collaborate with WHO for updates and necessary responses. Moreover, the ministry also plans to procure reagents as needed to ensure the country remains prepared to identify and manage any potential HMPV cases.
If you experience severe symptoms or difficulty breathing, consult a healthcare provider immediately for guidance and potential testing.