Two infants in India have tested positive for the human metapneumovirus (HMPV), raising concerns about a potential outbreak reminiscent of COVID-19. This development follows reports of a mysterious virus overwhelming hospitals in China. A three-month-old girl and a six-month-old boy in Bengaluru were hospitalized due to HMPV and are currently recovering. Another case involves a two-month-old boy in Ahmedabad.
India’s Health Ministry stated there is no linkage between these cases and those in China. HMPV, similar to RSV, causes respiratory illnesses ranging from mild infections to severe conditions like bronchitis and pneumonia. Symptoms typically peak in winter, and infections often resolve on their own. Chinese authorities have not confirmed the cause of their outbreak, with some attributing it to regular flu. The World Health Organization has not commented on the situation.
