WHO Dispels Myths About HMPV, Calls It a Seasonal Virus with No New Danger

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The World Health Organization (WHO) has responded to the rising concerns regarding the HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) virus in India, calling it a common and long-standing virus, not a new threat. WHO clarified that the virus was first identified in 2001 and has been circulating among humans for many years, particularly during the colder seasons.

The virus recently emerged as a point of concern after several cases were reported in China, followed by a growing number of cases in India. This sparked fears among the public, with speculation about the virus causing widespread harm similar to COVID-19. However, India's Health Minister JP Nadda had earlier urged people not to panic, a sentiment now echoed by WHO.

In a post on the social media platform X, WHO assured that HMPV is not new and has been present for a long time. It is a common virus that typically spreads during the winter and spring seasons, with symptoms similar to the common cold and respiratory infections.

So far, India has reported nine confirmed cases of HMPV. The most recent case, the ninth, was detected in Maharashtra, where a six-month-old baby at Hiranandani Hospital tested positive. Earlier, two cases were reported in Nagpur. The first case of the virus in India was detected in Karnataka, followed by two cases in Tamil Nadu, and one each in West Bengal and Gujarat. WHO's clarification aims to reassure the public and prevent unnecessary panic over the virus, which is expected to follow the usual seasonal trends.