HMPV cases rise in India, decline in China?
Recent developments regarding Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) indicate a rise in cases in India while declining trends are observed in China.
HMPV Situation in India
Increase in Cases: India has reported a total of 17 confirmed HMPV cases across various regions, including Bengaluru, Gujarat, and Puducherry. The cases primarily affect infants and young children, with symptoms typically resembling mild respiratory infections.
Recent Study Findings: A study from JIPMER in Puducherry revealed a 9.6% positivity rate among patients tested for HMPV between November 2022 and March 2023, with peak infections occurring during December and January. The study identified new lineages of the virus, specifically A2.2.1 and A2.2.2.
Expert Reassurance: Health officials emphasize that HMPV is not new and that the situation is manageable. They advise the public to remain calm and follow basic health precautions.
HMPV Situation in China
Decline in Cases: In contrast, China has reported a decline in HMPV infections, particularly in northern regions where the positive detection rates are decreasing among children aged 14 and below.
Health Monitoring: The Chinese CDC is actively monitoring respiratory illnesses and noted that overall respiratory illness rates are lower than last year, despite some seasonal fluctuations typical during winter months.
Public Health Response: Officials have reassured the public regarding the virus’s longstanding presence and the effectiveness of existing health measures to manage outbreaks.
These contrasting trends illustrate the varying impacts of HMPV in different regions, highlighting the importance of ongoing surveillance and public health preparedness.
