HMPV Virus Cases in India Today

Introduction

In early 2025, India reported its first confirmed cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) - a respiratory virus that has raised public health concerns across the globe. Although HMPV is not new to the medical community, its emergence in India has drawn attention due to its potential to cause seasonal outbreaks, particularly affecting young children, elderly adults, and immunocompromised patients.

While media coverage has often compared HMPV with COVID-19 or influenza, medical experts clarify that this virus is not a pandemic threat. Instead, it is part of the group of seasonal respiratory viruses, much like RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) and influenza, which tend to peak in late winter and spring.

So, what do we actually know about HMPV virus cases in India? How serious is the situation? And what measures are being taken to protect the public? This detailed blog breaks down everything you need to know — symptoms, transmission, official case numbers, research studies, government response, and prevention strategies — to give you a clear and reliable picture.

What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?

HMPV is a respiratory virus first identified in 2001 in the Netherlands. It belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family, the same family that includes respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and parainfluenza viruses.

Key facts about HMPV:

• Causes upper and lower respiratory tract infections.

• Common in children under 5 years, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.

• Symptoms range from mild cold-like illness to severe pneumonia or bronchiolitis.

• Transmission occurs via respiratory droplets, close contact, and contaminated surfaces.

• Seasonal virus: Most active during late winter to early spring.
  
  

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), HMPV has circulated worldwide for years, and most people are exposed to it by the age of 5 (WHO Q&A on HMPV).

HMPV Virus Cases in India: Timeline and Official Updates

First Confirmed Cases – January 2025

India confirmed its first seven HMPV cases in Bengaluru, Nagpur, Chennai, Ahmedabad, and Salem in early January 2025. According to reports from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), most of these cases were mild and managed with supportive care. (Press Release – MoHFW)

Additional Cases in Karnataka

Later in January 2025, two infants in Karnataka also tested positive. Both recovered after receiving hospital care, but their cases highlighted the vulnerability of children under five years.

National Case Count – March 2025

By March 2025, the Government of India informed Parliament that 90 HMPV cases and 2 deaths had been reported nationwide (both deaths linked to comorbidities like COPD and diabetes). (New Indian Express report)

Bengaluru Surge – August 2025

By August 2025, doctors in Bengaluru observed that HMPV had become more common than influenza in respiratory illness cases. Hospitals noted an unusual spike in seasonal respiratory infections, reinforcing the need for continued surveillance. (Wikipedia – HMPV outbreak 2024-25)

Symptoms of HMPV Infection

Most HMPV infections mimic the common cold but can worsen in high-risk groups.

Common Symptoms:

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Cough (dry or productive)

• Fever (mild to high)

• Sore throat

• Fatigue and body ache
  

Severe Symptoms (in vulnerable patients):

• Wheezing or whistling breath

• Shortness of breath

• Rapid breathing or chest retractions (in infants)

• Cyanosis (bluish lips/skin due to low oxygen)

• Chest pain
  

A case report from Puducherry (2022–23 outbreak) described an elderly patient initially misdiagnosed with bacterial pneumonia, later confirmed as HMPV. This underlines the importance of molecular testing for accurate diagnosis (HKSMP Case Report).

Who is Most at Risk?

While anyone can catch HMPV, severe illness is more common in:

• Children under 5 years (especially infants)

• Elderly adults (65+)

• People with chronic lung or heart disease (asthma, COPD, heart failure)

• Immunocompromised patients (cancer, HIV, transplant recipients)

• Pregnant women

• People living in crowded or poorly ventilated environments
  

How Does HMPV Spread?

Like other respiratory viruses, HMPV spreads via:

1. Respiratory droplets – when an infected person coughs/sneezes.

2. Direct contact – shaking hands, hugging, or touching contaminated objects.

3. Surface contamination – virus can survive on surfaces like doorknobs, phones, and utensils.
   

Diagnosis of HMPV in India

Diagnosing HMPV can be challenging because its symptoms resemble flu, RSV, or COVID-19.

Diagnostic Methods:

• RT-PCR tests (gold standard) – detect viral RNA.

• Serology tests – identify antibodies.

• Nasopharyngeal swabs – commonly used in surveillance labs.

• Multiplex respiratory panels – advanced testing that identifies multiple viruses simultaneously.

India uses the ICMR-VRDL network and IDSP (Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme) to monitor and confirm HMPV cases.

Research Insights: Prevalence of HMPV in India

Multiple studies show that HMPV has circulated in India for years, but most cases were misattributed to influenza or RSV.

• Chennai – 4% positivity in children with acute respiratory infections

• Pondicherry – 5%

• Lucknow – 3.6%

• Kolkata – 3% (PubMed study)
  

A meta-analysis (2004–2024) published in Monaldi Archives for Chest Disease found a pooled prevalence of ~5% for HMPV in India, with children under 5 years being the most affected (Monaldi Archives).

During a 2022–23 outbreak in Puducherry, researchers found 9.6% positivity and discovered novel HMPV lineages (A2.2.1, A2.2.2), suggesting ongoing viral evolution in India (HKSMP Case Report).

Government & Public Health Response

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has clarified that HMPV is not a pandemic threat. Instead, it is a seasonal virus with no unusual surge in 2025, though surveillance remains active.

Key measures include:

• Nationwide surveillance via ICMR and IDSP.

• Awareness campaigns on respiratory hygiene.

• Guidance to hospitals for early testing.

• Differentiating viral from bacterial infections to reduce antibiotic misuse.

(MoHFW official press note)

Prevention: How to Protect Yourself from HMPV

Since there is no vaccine or antiviral treatment for HMPV, prevention is crucial.

Public Health Recommendations:

• Wash hands frequently (20 seconds with soap).

• Use alcohol-based sanitizers when outside.

• Wear masks in crowded spaces.

• Cover mouth/nose when coughing or sneezing.

• Disinfect commonly touched surfaces.

• Avoid close contact with sick individuals.

• Maintain good immunity with a balanced diet, exercise, and adequate sleep.
  

Future Directions: Research & Vaccine Development

Scientists are exploring vaccines and antiviral drugs for HMPV, but none are approved yet. Animal studies and early trials show promise, but human use is still years away.

Experts recommend:

• Genomic surveillance to track emerging variants.

• Integrated monitoring of respiratory viruses alongside flu and RSV.

• Public awareness campaigns to reduce misdiagnosis.

Conclusion

The emergence of HMPV virus cases in India in 2025 has highlighted the need for stronger respiratory virus surveillance. While the number of cases remains limited, research shows that HMPV has been circulating in India for years, often undetected.

For the general public, there is no cause for panic. HMPV is a seasonal virus, not a pandemic. However, vulnerable groups — infants, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals — must be protected through preventive measures and early diagnosis.

At MedTripz, we are committed to providing accurate, timely, and research-backed health insights. Stay connected with us to learn more about emerging viruses, public health updates, and expert medical advice.

 For verified updates, you can also read:

• WHO: Human Metapneumovirus Q&A
  

• Indian Government MoHFW Press Release
  

• Meta-analysis of HMPV prevalence in India – Monaldi Archives