Pune: Testing for Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) in suspected cases of respiratory illness will now extend beyond Pune’s National Institute of Virology (NIV) to include laboratories at Mumbai’s Kasturba Hospital for Infectious Diseases and Nagpur’s AIIMS. These facilities will also conduct genomic sequencing for hMPV to better understand its genetic structure and spread.
This development follows a rise in cases of severe acute respiratory illness in China, where hMPV is identified as a key contributor. Addressing concerns, the Health Department clarified that hMPV has been known since 2001, with initial cases reported in the Netherlands. Over the years, the virus has been detected globally.
Symptoms and Transmission
hMPV generally causes mild respiratory infections but can lead to severe illnesses in individuals with weakened immune systems. The virus spreads through direct contact with infected individuals (via coughing, sneezing, or handshakes) or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms include coughing, runny nose, fever, sore throat, and breathing difficulties.
Preventive Measures
Health authorities have issued advisories emphasizing hygiene practices such as frequent handwashing, observing proper cough etiquette, cleaning surfaces, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. Directives have been sent to district collectors and administrative officials to implement these measures across Maharashtra.
Testing and Sequencing Protocol
Maharashtra’s three designated laboratories will screen respiratory samples for severe acute respiratory illness (SARI), seasonal flu, COVID-19, and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) before testing for hMPV. Genomic sequencing will be conducted on hMPV-positive samples for further analysis.
Data from 2024 Testing
The NIV laboratory in Pune, in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), tested approximately 9,500 samples for hMPV between January and December 2024. Of these, 3% tested positive for hMPV, all of whom exhibited mild symptoms and recovered fully. The Health Department also confirmed no unusual increase in SARI cases to date.