A private hospital has identified a child as infected with the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Ahmedabad, Gujarat today. According to a civic source on Monday, the child’s health is stable.
Two further confirmed cases were announced earlier today in Karnataka, bringing the official number of HMPV cases in India to three.
The infected baby, who is from Dungarpur, Rajasthan, was brought to the private hospital in Ahmedabad’s Chandkheda neighborhood on December 24 with signs of a respiratory illness.
Bhavin Solanki, the in-charge medical officer of health for Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, was quoted by the news agency as saying that the newborn tested positive for the HMPV.
“HMPV (infection) was detected in the patient on December 26, but we learnt about it today as the private hospital reported it to us late,” Solanki said.
According to the official, the patient was maintained in isolation. The child’s condition is now stable after previously being placed on a ventilator, Solanki continued.
Through routine surveillance for several respiratory viral infections, the Indian Council of Medical Research identified two cases of HMPV in Karnataka, the Union health ministry announced on Monday.
According to the ministry, all possible surveillance channels are being used to keep an eye on the situation. Throughout the year, the ICMR will keep an eye on changes in the circulation of HMPV.
In order to further inform the ongoing actions, the World Health Organization (WHO) is already promptly giving information on the situation in China.
“India is well-equipped to handle any potential increase in respiratory illnesses and public health interventions can be deployed promptly if needed,” the ministry said, citing the results of a recent nationwide preparation drill.
