Bengaluru has reported its first cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in two infants, both with no history of international travel. An eight-month-old baby was admitted to Bengaluru Baptist Hospital with fever and breathing problems. Preliminary tests indicated HMPV, but confirmation is still pending. A three-month-old girl was also diagnosed with HMPV after being treated for bronchopneumonia and has since been discharged.

Health officials are conducting additional tests to confirm the virus and are prepared to take necessary actions, including enhanced testing and protocols, if HMPV is confirmed. Karnataka’s Health Commissioner, Harsha Gupta, reassured the public that the detection of HMPV is not unusual and there is no immediate cause for concern. He emphasized that similar cases have been identified before, and no new alarming developments have been reported.

The Union Health Ministry is closely monitoring the situation in China, where there are speculations about a rise in HMPV cases, through available surveillance channels. Officials have urged the public to stay informed and updated on the situation.