Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao Addresses Concerns Over HMPV Cases

Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao Addresses Concerns Over HMPV Cases

Bengaluru, January 7, 2025 – Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has sought to allay public fears following the detection of two Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in Bengaluru. The minister emphasized that HMPV is not a new virus. He urged the public to remain calm.

In a statement, Rao clarified that the virus has been in circulation globally, including in India, for some time. “HMPV is not a new virus; it has existed for a long time and typically causes common symptoms like cold, flu, and cough,” he said. He added that referring to the recent cases as the “first” in India is misleading. The virus is already present in the country.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) identified the two cases in Karnataka through routine surveillance. Both cases involved infants with a history of bronchopneumonia. Doctors discharged the first case, a three-month-old female infant. The second case, an eight-month-old male infant, is currently recovering.

Rao assured the public that there is no need to panic. The state government is closely monitoring the situation. “We are well-equipped to handle any potential increase in respiratory illnesses. Public health interventions can be deployed promptly if needed,” he said.

The minister also addressed concerns about the outbreak in China. He stated that the cases in Karnataka are not linked to the new variant reported there. “The child that got affected has no travel history. They are local people,” he said.

The Karnataka government has issued guidelines to prevent the spread of infections. These include covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, washing hands frequently, and avoiding crowded places. Rao emphasized that there is no need for a mask mandate or prohibition of public movement at this time.

The ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) will continue to monitor the situation. They will provide updates as necessary. The World Health Organization (WHO) is also tracking global cases and providing regular updates.