India Responds to Reports of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Outbreak in China: No Cause for Alarm, Says Health Agency

 In response to reports of a Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak in China, India’s health authorities have assured the public that the situation does not warrant alarm. According to Dr. Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services (DGHS), the virus behaves like any other respiratory pathogen causing common cold symptoms.

"HMPV spread in China is akin to other respiratory viruses that cause cold-like symptoms. There is no need for concern," said Dr. Goel, emphasizing the importance of adhering to standard precautions against respiratory infections. He further clarified, "While the virus may cause flu-like symptoms in vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and young children, its impact is not extraordinary."

Dr. Goel also stated that the Directorate has reviewed domestic data on respiratory outbreaks and found no significant increase during December 2024.

#WATCH | Delhi | On HPMV virus outbreak and preparedness of Indian hospitals, Directorate General of Health Services, Dr Atul Goel says, "... Metapneumovirus is like any other respiratory virus that causes common cold, and in very old and very young it could cause flu-like… pic.twitter.com/101vPTolAi

— ANI (@ANI) January 3, 2025

NCDC Monitors Domestic and Regional Trends

India’s National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), under the Union Health Ministry, is actively monitoring the situation. In coordination with international agencies, the NCDC is closely observing trends in respiratory and seasonal illnesses within the country.

“We remain vigilant, validating data and updating public health measures as necessary,” a senior official told ANI, adding that the agency is in constant communication with global health organizations.

Surge in Respiratory Illnesses in China

Recent data from December 16–22, 2024, highlighted a surge in respiratory infections across China, including seasonal influenza, rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and HMPV. Overcrowded hospitals and an overburdened healthcare system have raised concerns, particularly about HMPV, which has shown significant activity in various parts of Asia.

Health experts, however, pointed out that the scale of respiratory infections in China is lower than in the previous year. According to updates from the World Health Organization’s Western Pacific Regional Office (WPRO), a seasonal rise in respiratory pathogens is typical during the winter months in the northern hemisphere.

Expert Insights on HMPV

Dr. Arjun Dang, CEO of Dr. Dangs Lab, emphasized the importance of robust surveillance and early detection mechanisms to manage outbreaks of respiratory viruses like HMPV.

"The resurgence of Human Metapneumovirus highlights the dynamic challenges posed by respiratory viruses, particularly in densely populated regions. While HMPV has often gone unrecognized, it has been a silent contributor to global seasonal respiratory illnesses," Dr. Dang stated.

While the rise in respiratory illnesses in China, including HMPV, warrants vigilance, Indian health authorities maintain that there is no immediate cause for concern. Citizens are encouraged to continue observing preventive measures to safeguard against respiratory infections, particularly during the winter season.