A 10-month-old child in Assam has tested positive for the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) virus, marking the state’s first recorded case, confirmed the health officials. Superintendent of Assam Medical College and Hospital, Dhruv Jyoti Bhuiyan confirmed the infection. He stated that a test was conducted on the child, which came positive.

Speaking to ANI, Bhuiyan said, “This morning, we got the report of the child who had come here who had cough and symptoms and had been diagnosed with the HMPV virus. The test was part of the routine but the results came positive. There is nothing to worry about, the child is perfectly alright, it is a 10-month-old child.” He informed that the child is doing alright and there is nothing to worry about.

Health Officials Advise States To Enhance Preventive Measures

Earlier on January 6, Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava chaired a meeting with States/UTs to review the present situation of respiratory illnesses in India and the status regarding the HMPV cases following media reports of surge in HMPV cases in China, and the public health measures for their management.

She emphasised that there is no cause of concern for the public from HMPV which has been present globally since 2001. Punya advised states to strengthen and review the ILI/SARI surveillance. She reiterated that an increase in respiratory illnesses is usually seen during the winter months. She further added that the country is well prepared for any potential surge in respiratory illness cases.

The press release from Health Ministry stated, “Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is one of the many respiratory viruses that can cause infections in people of all ages particularly during the winter and early spring months. The virus infection is usually a mild and self-limiting condition and most cases recover on their own.”

Seeing the number of cases reported from Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra; the states were advised to enhance IEC and awareness among the population regarding prevention of transmission of the virus with simple precautionary measures. The measure include washing hands often with soap and water; avoid touching their eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands; avoid close contact with people who are exhibiting symptoms of the disease; cover mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing etc.

Also Read: HMPV Outbreak: ‘Common During Winter,’ WHO Official Breaks Down Spike In Respiratory Cases