HMPV Surge: Live tracking of cases around the globe

Welcome to our live blog on the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) surge, a respiratory virus making headlines worldwide. First identified in 2001, HMPV is back in focus with a spike in cases, particularly in China, and recent confirmations in India. Known to cause symptoms ranging from mild colds to severe respiratory conditions like bronchitis and pneumonia, the virus poses heightened risks to children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.

The virus spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, close personal contact, and touching contaminated surfaces, making it a significant public health concern during colder months when indoor gatherings increase. While there's no specific vaccine or antiviral treatment for HMPV, preventive measures like hand hygiene, mask-wearing, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals are advised. The global community, therefore, watches closely as HMPV case numbers fluctuate, aiming to understand the spread patterns, manage outbreaks, and prevent another health crisis.

Amidst this backdrop, India has reported its two confirmed cases of HMPV, adding a new dimension to the global tracking and understanding of this virus's spread. 

In this live coverage, we’ll provide updates on the latest case numbers, expert insights, preventive measures, and global responses. As the virus spreads through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces, public health agencies worldwide are on alert to track its movement and mitigate its impact. Stay tuned as we bring you the latest developments and critical information to stay informed and prepared.

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Jan 12, 2025 12:05 IST
WHO: Northern Hemisphere respiratory infections follow seasonal trends
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that the rise in acute respiratory infections, including human metapneumovirus (HMPV), in the Northern Hemisphere is consistent with typical seasonal patterns. These infections, caused by viruses like seasonal influenza, RSV, and HMPV, are common during winter and spring. While most HMPV cases result in mild cold-like symptoms, some can lead to more severe conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia, requiring hospitalization. The WHO highlighted that the simultaneous circulation of multiple respiratory viruses can strain healthcare systems during this time.



Jan 12, 2025 12:04 IST
Pune collector: Arrangements in place to address HMPV cases
Pune district collector Jitendra Dudi assured the public that necessary medical arrangements and government SOPs are being implemented to tackle human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases detected in parts of the country. While meetings with medical and revenue officials are planned, he emphasized that there is no cause for alarm.



Jan 09, 2025 18:24 IST
Chhattisgarh forms panel to monitor HMPV situation
The Chhattisgarh government has set up a technical committee, led by Dr. S K Pambhoi, to monitor the status of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections. Following the Union Health Ministry's directive, the panel will oversee awareness efforts, suggest preventive measures, and develop an action plan. Regular reports will be submitted to the state health department.



Jan 09, 2025 18:23 IST
HMPV not highly transmissible, confirms Odisha Health Director
Odisha’s Director of Public Health, Nilakantha Mishra, stated that the HMPV virus is not highly transmissible and no advisory has been issued by the state government. Following reports of HMPV cases in Bengaluru, Nagpur, Chennai, and Ahmedabad, the Union Health Ministry has urged states to strengthen surveillance for influenza-like illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI). Seven cases of HMPV infection have been detected in children across these cities.



Jan 09, 2025 12:25 IST
J-K Health dept urges precaution amid HMPV concerns
The Jammu and Kashmir Health Department has reassured the public that there is no need to panic regarding concerns about HMPV. Officials have emphasized the importance of taking precautionary measures to address any potential outbreak and affirmed that the health machinery is fully prepared to handle the situation effectively.



Jan 09, 2025 12:25 IST
WHO: Rise in HMPV cases follows seasonal trends
The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported an increase in acute respiratory infections, including HMPV, across the Northern Hemisphere. However, this rise aligns with usual seasonal patterns caused by respiratory pathogens, making it a typical trend for this time of year.



Jan 08, 2025 13:30 IST
CM Yogi Adityanath orders enhanced health measures amid cold wave
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has instructed officials to ensure robust health measures across the state as cold-related ailments rise, particularly targeting vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing conditions. He emphasized staying alert, especially as issues like cough, fever, and respiratory problems are expected to increase due to the cold weather.



Jan 08, 2025 12:33 IST
Mumbai reports first HMPV case
A six-month-old child in Mumbai tested positive for human metapneumovirus (HMPV) and was admitted to ICU. This marks Maharashtra's third reported case, as concerns grow over rising cases worldwide.



Jan 08, 2025 10:28 IST
Jharkhand health Minister addresses HMPV concerns
Jharkhand Health Minister Irfan Ansari reassured the public on Tuesday that the state remains unaffected by the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection. He stated there is no need for panic, despite reports of cases in other parts of the country. Ansari confirmed that no cases have been reported in Jharkhand and emphasized that the situation is being closely monitored.



Jan 08, 2025 10:27 IST
Gujarat health department issues circular
The Gujarat Health Department has issued a circular urging government officials to take necessary steps to manage HMPV cases. Additional testing kits will be procured and distributed to hospitals to speed up detection, according to a department release.



Jan 07, 2025 10:22 IST
India's HMPV cases rise to 7
India has reported seven cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections in children, with cases emerging in Bengaluru, Nagpur, Tamil Nadu, and Ahmedabad.



Jan 06, 2025 17:26 IST
HMPV virus scare hits Indian stock markets hard
Indian markets tumbled Monday as fears of HMPV cases in Karnataka fueled panic. Nifty fell 388 points to 23,616.05, Sensex dropped 1,258 points to 77,964.99. Weak rupee, slowing economy, FPI selling, and global pressures compounded the decline, reflecting fragile investor sentiment.



Jan 06, 2025 16:11 IST
HMPV virus symptoms: Mild to severe respiratory issues
HMPV symptoms include cough, congestion, sore throat, and fever. Severe cases may cause wheezing, breathing difficulties, pneumonia, or worsen asthma, especially in infants, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.



Jan 06, 2025 15:54 IST
Gujarat confirms a case of HMPV, total cases rise to 3
A child in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, has tested positive for HMPV, bringing India's total to three confirmed cases. The child's condition is stable, with previous cases reported in Karnataka.



Jan 06, 2025 15:53 IST
Karnataka govt assures public
Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao reassures the public after two HMPV cases are detected. He states it's an existing flu virus, and the patient is stable, urging calm and no cause for panic.



Jan 06, 2025 15:52 IST
Delhi Health Minister orders action amid HMPV cases
Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj instructs the Health Department to prepare hospitals for potential respiratory illness surge. He urges immediate action, coordination with Union Health Ministry, and daily inspections of hospitals to ensure readiness.



Jan 06, 2025 13:22 IST
ICMR confirms HMPV circulating in India
ICMR reassures that HMPV is circulating globally, including India. Two cases were reported in Bengaluru involving infants, but no travel history was found. The medical body assures India is prepared for any rise in respiratory illnesses.



Jan 06, 2025 13:12 IST
Surge in HMPV cases in Malaysia
Malaysia reports a 45% rise in HMPV cases, totaling 327 in 2024. The health ministry urges public awareness, stressing hygiene measures like handwashing, masks, and covering coughs to curb the spread, despite the seasonal uptick in respiratory infections.



Jan 06, 2025 13:10 IST
No HMPV surge in Peru, expert clarifies
Pablo Tsukayama, microbiology expert, assures there’s no increase in HMPV cases in Peru despite rumors. The virus, known for mild symptoms, is being monitored, with no unusual trends or outbreaks reported.



Jan 06, 2025 13:05 IST
China not shutting flights amid HMPV surge
China has not imposed any flight restrictions despite rising Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases. The government assures it’s safe to travel, stating respiratory infections peak in winter but are less severe. No lockdown is planned, and India reports two HMPV cases without travel history.



Jan 06, 2025 12:55 IST
ICMR continues monitoring HMPV spread
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) continues to monitor Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases. The Ministry of Health urges vigilance but confirms no increase in respiratory illness cases across the country based on current data.




Jan 06, 2025 12:50 IST
HMPV cases detected in Karnataka
Two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) were detected in Karnataka, affecting a 3-month-old girl and an 8-month-old boy with pneumonia symptoms. The infections, reported by ICMR, are not linked to the recent surge in China. Both children are receiving treatment and recovering.