Hyderabad: With the rising concern over an increase in the number of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in the country, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is likely to enhance the number of laboratories which are capable of testing for HMPV.
The medical research agency is likely to improve the testing capabilities of at least one facility in Hyderabad as it attracts a large number of international visitors, according to an official.
ICMR wants to integrate the laboratory network with the surveillance system for respiratory illness. The system is already monitoring influenza-like illnesses, severe acute respiratory illnesses and other respiratory diseases such as Adenovirus and RSV. A timely update by the agency will help health authorities to formulate public health strategies and take preventive measures by analysing the data.
The Telangana’s health department is also conducting its own analysis of respiratory infection data. The analysis of the data showed no significant increase in respiratory infection cases in December 2024 compared to the previous year. In spite of no major spike in respiratory illnesses, Telangana is closely coordinating with the Union health ministry on HMPV. The state is following the guidelines from the Directorate General of Health Services and the National Centre for Disease Control.
The state health authorities have already issued a list of dos and don’ts for people to help safeguard against respiratory infections.
Health experts and officials have advised against raising panic, as the virus is not new and it generally causes mild symptoms. Two cases of HMPV were initially detected in Bengaluru including a three-month-old female infant, admitted with bronchopneumonia and subsequently discharged. Another eight-month-old male infant, who was admitted with the same bronchopneumonia, is currently recovering. A third case has been reported in Gujarat. All the patients have no history of international travel.
The HMPV testing is done by using the HMPV PCR test, which detects the virus’s genetic material. The Covid-19 is diagnosed primarily through PCR tests that detect the presence of SARS CoV2, the virus responsible for Covid-19. Rapid antigen tests are also used but are less sensitive than PCR tests.
Both viruses — HMPV and Covid-19 — cause respiratory symptoms such as cough, fever, sore throat and shortness of breath, making differential diagnosis challenging. However, HMPV often presents with symptoms resembling a common cold or flu while Covid-19 can lead to a broader range of symptoms including loss of taste or smell.
Severe cases of both infections may require hospitalisation. However, Covid-19 has been associated with a higher rate of severe respiratory distress and complications requiring intensive care compared to HMPV. The HMPV is a seasonal disease that usually occurs in the winter and early spring.
