Gujarat has reported its third case of human metapneumovirus (HMPV), an infection that has raised concerns across the state. The most recent case involves an eight-year-old boy from Sabarkantha district, bringing the total number of confirmed HMPV cases in the state to three. The boy, who hails from a family of farm laborers in Prantij taluka, was initially considered a suspected case. However, after testing positive for HMPV in a private laboratory, his blood samples were sent for further confirmation to a government lab. On Friday, the government lab confirmed the diagnosis, making it an official case.
The child, currently receiving treatment at a private hospital in Himmatnagar, is reportedly in stable condition but is on a ventilator. Doctors have assured the public that his health is being closely monitored. Sabarkantha District Collector Ratankanvar Gadhavicharan confirmed the case and provided reassurance that the child is receiving appropriate medical care.
This latest case follows the first recorded instance of HMPV in Gujarat earlier this month. On January 6, a two-month-old boy from Rajasthan was found to be infected with the virus. The infant, who exhibited common symptoms such as fever, runny nose, and nasal congestion, was treated at a hospital and subsequently discharged after a full recovery. This case was quickly followed by another confirmed case in Ahmedabad city. On Thursday, an 80-year-old man who suffers from asthma was diagnosed with HMPV. He is currently receiving treatment at a private hospital in Ahmedabad and is in stable condition.
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a member of the Paramyxoviridae family, was first discovered in 2001. It is closely related to the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a well-known virus that causes respiratory illness, especially in children and the elderly. HMPV primarily spreads through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can also be transmitted by touching contaminated surfaces or through direct contact with infected individuals. As with other respiratory infections, common symptoms of HMPV include fever, nasal congestion, runny nose, and cough, making it difficult to distinguish from other viral illnesses such as the flu or a cold.
The increase in HMPV cases in Gujarat has prompted local health authorities to issue alerts and ensure that medical facilities are equipped to handle the surge in respiratory infections. Health Minister Rushikesh Patel confirmed that the state government is closely monitoring the situation. He emphasized that while the virus is concerning, the state’s healthcare system is prepared to address the cases as they arise.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently reported that there has been an increase in acute respiratory infections across the Northern Hemisphere, including cases of HMPV. This is considered a normal seasonal variation, with respiratory pathogens like HMPV, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) becoming more prevalent during the winter months. WHO has stated that while healthcare systems may face added pressure during this time, such outbreaks are expected and manageable with proper resources.
In light of the rising number of cases, health officials have urged the public to follow preventive measures such as practicing good hygiene, frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and covering coughs and sneezes. Masks are also recommended in crowded spaces, especially during the peak of the respiratory illness season.
As the winter season continues, the number of HMPV and other respiratory infections is expected to rise, making it essential for both individuals and healthcare systems to stay vigilant.
BY – KARTIK
