BENGALURU: India's first case of HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) has been confirmed in Bengaluru. The disease was detected in an eight-month-old baby. The baby is being treated at a private hospital in Bengaluru.

The baby has no history of travelling abroad. The doctors said they are examining from where he contracted the disease. It is not clear whether it is a Chinese variant. HMPV was confirmed in a lab test conducted at a private hospital. The Karnataka Health Department said the baby's sample will be collected and further testing will be conducted.

There were reports recently that respiratory diseases such as HMPV, Covid 19, influenza A, and Mycoplasma pneumoniae are spreading rapidly in China and that hospitals are being filled with patients. China has said that there is no need to worry about the spread of the disease. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said this is just a normal issue seen in winters.

HMPV

1. Affects the lungs
2. First identified in 2001
3. Symptoms include cough, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. Can also cause bronchitis and pneumonia
4. The virus spreads through air when coughing or sneezing. Wearing a mask can help prevent spread. Avoid direct contact with infected people
5. There is no vaccine.