Delhi issues guidelines for suspected HMPV cases, mandates isolation

Delhi health authorities issued an advisory on Sunday in preparation for potential health risks associated with Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) and other respiratory viruses, following an increase in cases reported in China.

The advisory instructed medical facilities to keep detailed records of Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) cases and lab-confirmed influenza to ensure accurate monitoring.

Hospitals have been advised to stock up on essential medications such as paracetamol, antihistamines, bronchodilators, and cough syrups, along with oxygen supplies for treating mild cases.

They have also been instructed to report Influenza-like Illness (ILI) and SARI cases through the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) portal. Strict isolation protocols and universal precautions are mandatory for suspected cases.

The advisory follows reports of rising respiratory illnesses in China, but officials from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO) have stated that there has been no significant surge in respiratory illnesses in India as of January 2, 2025.

Dr. Vandana Bagga, a top Delhi health official, conducted a meeting with chief district medical officers and the state program officer of IDSP to review the city’s preparedness for managing respiratory illnesses.

Meanwhile, tThe Indian Council of Medical Research has detected two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens

A three-month-old female infant with a history of bronchopneumonia was diagnosed with HMPV after being admitted to Baptist Hospital in Bengaluru. She has already been discharged, the ministry said.

An eight-month-old male infant with a history of bronchopneumonia tested positive for HMPV on January 3 after being admitted to Baptist Hospital. He is now recovering, it said.

It is important to note that neither of the patients have any history of international travel, the ministry underlined.

The ministry said it is monitoring the situation through all available surveillance channels. The ICMR will continue to track trends in HMPV circulation throughout the year.

What is HMPV?

HMPV primarily affects the respiratory system and can cause infections ranging from mild to severe. It spreads through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces.

Although it belongs to a different viral family than COVID-19, HMPV shares similar symptoms and transmission patterns, particularly in how it affects the respiratory system and vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms of HMPV typically include cough, wheezing, runny nose, and sore throat, resembling a common cold. However, in susceptible individuals, the virus can lead to severe respiratory complications, requiring prompt medical attention.