Representative image showing a test for HMPV
Credit: iStock Photo
Ahmedabad: A two-month-old child has been detected with Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection at a private hospital in Gujarat's Ahmedabad, which is reported to be the third case of the virus in the country.
According to the state government, the infant's condition is "completely stable."
The government in a statement said that the infant is from Dungarpur in Rajasthan, close to Gujarat border. He was admitted to a private hospital in Chandkheda on December 20 following symptoms of respiratory infection.
Quoting state health minister Rushikesh Patel, the statement said, "The HMPV sample of a 2-month-old child who came to Ahmedabad from Dungarpur for treatment was found to be positive. Currently, the child is under treatment and is completely stable."
Stating that "the cases of HMPV are being observed in China," the minister was quoted as saying that "there was no need to panic but one has to be careful as HMPV is not a new virus. This virus was identified back in 2001."
The statement said that the state health and family welfare department has been alerted to make arrangements for any emergency. On January 4, a meeting in this regard was held where health officials from each district were instructed to remain alert.
This virus has been identified since 2001.- This virus appears during the winter season especially in young children and elderly and its symptoms are common. Includes colds and flu.