Assam Confirms First HMPV Case of the Season as 10-Month-Old Infant Tests Positive

DY365
DY365
Published: January 11,2025 01:15 PM
DY365

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Assam Confirms First HMPV Case of the Season as 10-Month-Old Infant Tests Positive

January 11, 2025: Assam has recorded its first case of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection this season, with a 10-month-old child testing positive in Dibrugarh, according to officials.



The infant, who is undergoing treatment at the Assam Medical College and Hospital (AMCH), was admitted four days ago with cold-related symptoms. The hospital superintendent, Dr. Dhrubajyoti Bhuyan, confirmed that the infection was detected during routine testing.



“The HMPV infection was confirmed yesterday after test results from the Lahowal-based ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre (ICMR-RMRC) were received,” Dr. Bhuyan stated. He reassured the public, saying, “The child is stable now. It is a common virus, and there is nothing to worry about.”



Dr. Biswajit Borkakoty, senior scientist at ICMR-RMRC, noted that HMPV is detected annually in the region, with 110 cases reported in Dibrugarh district since 2014. “This is the first case this season. Every year, such cases are detected, and this is not unusual,” he added.



Human metapneumovirus is a common respiratory virus that often causes mild, cold-like symptoms. First identified in 2001, the virus has been circulating in human populations since at least the 1970s. It accounts for 4-16% of acute respiratory infections globally, with a seasonal peak between November and May.



While most adults have developed immunity to the virus, HMPV can lead to more severe symptoms in infants and those with weakened immune systems, particularly during their first exposure.



Health authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have urged residents to follow basic hygiene practices to prevent the spread of respiratory infections.