HMPV Virus Cases in India Live Updates: Amid heightened surveillance in India, Gujarat reported another case of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), raising further concerns about the virus’s spread. A 10-month-old child in Assam and A 9-month-old baby in Ahmedabad have tested positive for HMPV, increasing the total number of cases of the respiratory illness to 15.
Meanwhile, China has reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring respiratory diseases, including HMPV, and remains in close communication with the World Health Organisation (WHO). Speaking at a press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that the government prioritizes the health of its citizens. He clarified that HMPV is not a new virus, having circulated among humans for over 60 years.
Guo dismissed sensationalist descriptions of the virus, emphasizing, "HMPV infections manifest itself as a self-limiting disease." He added, "It is alarmist to exaggerate common viruses as unknown viruses, which goes against scientific common sense."
Former AIIMS Director Dr Randeep Guleria said “HMPV is not novel, it’s an old virus. It has been there for some time. Viruses usually cause mild illness, but in extremes of age, in infants and young children and the elderly or those with comorbidities, it can cause pneumonia, in young and old, which can lead to breathing issues, as well as hospitalisation.”
Union Health Minister JP Nadda said, "Health experts have clarified that #HMPV is not a new virus. There is no reason to worry. We are closely monitoring the situation."
According to health experts, even though there is no vaccine for HMPV, a regular flu shot or three doses of Covid vaccine makes one immune against it.
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