Assam has reported its first case of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection this season, with a 10-month-old child testing positive for the virus.
The child, who was admitted to Assam Medical College and Hospital (AMCH) in Dibrugarh with cold-related symptoms, is currently in stable condition, officials said on Saturday.
The infection was confirmed after test results were received from the Lahowal-based ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre (ICMR-RMRC). “It was a routine test during which the HMPV infection was detected. The child is stable now. It is a common virus, and there is nothing to worry about,” said Dr. Dhrubajyoti Bhuyan, superintendent of AMCH.
HMPV is a common respiratory virus that typically causes mild cold-like symptoms. It has been circulating in human populations since the 1970s, although it was first identified by scientists in 2001. The virus accounts for 4-16% of acute respiratory infections globally, with cases usually peaking between November and May.
Dr. Biswajit Borkakoty, a senior scientist at ICMR-RMRC, noted that since 2014, 110 HMPV cases have been detected in Dibrugarh district. “This is the first case this season. Every year, it is detected, and nothing is new,” he added.
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