Dibrugarh, Jan 11: A 10-month-old child in Assam has tested positive for human metapneumovirus (HMPV), marking the first case of the virus detected in the state this season. Health officials have reassured the public that there is no cause for concern, as the child’s condition remains stable.
The child, who exhibited cold-like symptoms, was admitted to Assam Medical College and Hospital (AMCH) in Dibrugarh four days ago. Routine tests confirmed HMPV as the cause of the illness, with results from the ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre (ICMR-RMRC) in Lahowal.
AMCH Superintendent Dhrubajyoti Bhuyan emphasized that HMPV is a common respiratory virus. “The detection of HMPV was part of routine testing, and the child is stable. There is no need to worry,” Bhuyan said.
A senior ICMR-RMRC official confirmed that this is the first case of HMPV detected this season in Dibrugarh, although the virus has been regularly reported in the region. Since 2014, Dibrugarh district has recorded 110 cases of HMPV.
First identified in 2001, HMPV typically causes mild symptoms such as coughing, fever, and nasal congestion. It spreads through person-to-person contact or contaminated surfaces. Vulnerable groups, including young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems, may experience more severe symptoms. However, experts have reassured the public that the situation is not comparable to the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Also Read: First Case of HMPV Detected in 10-Month-Old in Assam, No Need for Alarm, Say Officials