India News

HMPV cases in India: Expert issues advisory as virus spreads in several states

Published

2 years ago

January 8, 2025

Union Health Ministry confirms 2 HMPV cases in Bengaluru, says no international travel history

India is currently witnessing a rise in cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus that has affected 11 people across multiple states. The virus, which has been present globally for years, was identified in 2001 and remains a common cause of respiratory illnesses, particularly in children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Experts are warning that HMPV spreads more rapidly when immunity is weak, urging caution as the country monitors the situation closely.

HMPV cases and spread across India

The recent surge in HMPV cases includes reports from several cities across India. The latest case, a six-month-old baby from Mumbai, was confirmed at Hiranandani Hospital in Powai, bringing the total to 11 cases. The breakdown of cases includes two in Bengaluru, one in Gujarat, two in Chennai, three in Kolkata, and now three in Maharashtra. Health officials have noted that while the virus is not new, its spread appears to be accelerating.

Dr. Randeep Guleria, former director of AIIMS, explained that although HMPV typically causes mild symptoms, it can lead to severe respiratory issues in vulnerable populations such as infants, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. “The virus itself is usually self-limiting, and symptomatic treatment is often sufficient,” he added, advising people to stay hydrated, manage fever, and avoid crowded places to prevent further spread.

No need for alarm, says health authorities

Union Health Minister JP Nadda has reassured the public, stating that there is no cause for panic. “Health experts have clarified that HMPV is not a new virus, and we are closely monitoring the situation,” he said. Additionally, Brajesh Pathak, Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, assured residents that the state government is taking necessary precautions and staying alert to the situation. Authorities in Patna have urged the public to remain calm and adhere to guidelines provided by both the Central and Bihar governments.

No Vaccine for HMPV Yet, But Flu and Covid Vaccines Provide Some Protection

While there is no specific vaccine for HMPV, health experts have indicated that flu shots and the three doses of the Covid-19 vaccine can provide some immunity against the virus. “Although a vaccine for HMPV is still not available, regular flu shots and Covid-19 vaccinations offer some level of protection,” said a health expert.

Understanding the impact of HMPV

HMPV is primarily known for causing respiratory issues, with symptoms similar to RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) and the flu. For most healthy individuals, the virus causes mild illness, but for vulnerable populations, such as infants, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems, it can lead to pneumonia and other severe respiratory conditions. The most common symptoms include fever, nasal congestion, cough, and a runny nose. In severe cases, the virus can lead to breathlessness, rapid breathing, and chest retractions.

Growing concerns over global and regional spread

Globally, the rise in HMPV cases is coinciding with other respiratory health crises. The United Kingdom is currently grappling with a ‘quad-demic’ crisis, with rising cases of flu, norovirus, RSV, and COVID-19. The situation has been further complicated by the growing HMPV cases in China, highlighting the need for effective vaccines and treatments to address such widespread outbreaks.

Measures to prevent HMPV spread

Health authorities recommend several preventive measures to curb the spread of HMPV. Regular hand washing, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and practicing respiratory hygiene by covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing are essential. Public places should be frequently disinfected, and individuals with symptoms of the virus are advised to stay home to prevent transmission. For those showing more severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or persistent fever, seeking medical attention is strongly recommended, especially for high-risk individuals.

Mizoram takes proactive measures

In response to the rise in cases, the Mizoram government has formed a dedicated committee to closely monitor the situation. Health Minister Lalrinpuii led a meeting to discuss the matter, signaling the state’s commitment to staying ahead of the virus’s spread.

HMPV may not be new, but its growing presence in India and its potential to cause severe respiratory issues in vulnerable populations highlight the need for vigilance. Health experts are urging people to take preventive measures seriously and stay informed as the situation develops.

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India News

Asish Banerjee found dead in Rampurhat, Mamata Banerjee aide’s death shocks TMC

Former West Bengal deputy speaker and five-time Rampurhat MLA Asish Banerjee was found dead at a Trinamool Congress office in Birbhum.

Published

5 hours ago

August 16, 2026

APNLive Desk

Former West Bengal Assembly deputy speaker and Trinamool Congress leader Asish Banerjee was found dead at a party office next to his residence in Rampurhat, Birbhum district, on Sunday morning.

Police said his body was found hanging and was sent for postmortem. A large crowd gathered outside the Trinamool Congress office after news of his death spread.

Who was Asish Banerjee?

Asish Banerjee had served as the deputy speaker of the West Bengal Assembly when Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee was the state’s chief minister. He was also a five-time MLA from Rampurhat.

He had served as Bengal’s education and agriculture minister after Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress first came to power in the state.

Banerjee contested the West Bengal Assembly election earlier this year but lost the Rampurhat seat to BJP’s Dhruba Saha.

Asish Banerjee’s recent party role

Banerjee stepped down as chairman of the Trinamool Congress’s Birbhum district core committee in June. At the time, he said he would continue as a general member of the party.

He lived in the Hattalapara neighbourhood of Rampurhat, with the party office where his body was found located next to his house.

BJP gains in Birbhum

The BJP won six of the 11 Assembly constituencies in Birbhum in the latest state election. This marked a significant change from 2021, when the Trinamool Congress had won 10 seats in the district while the BJP had secured one.

Police have sent Asish Banerjee’s body for postmortem as the circumstances surrounding his death are being investigated.

India News

IPS Officer Nupur Prasad gets Medal for Meritorious Service after Sushant Singh Rajput probe

IPS officer Nupur Prasad, who led the CBI investigation into Sushant Singh Rajput’s death, has been selected for the Medal for Meritorious Service this year.

Published

1 day ago

August 15, 2026

APNLive Desk

IPS officer Nupur Prasad, who led the CBI investigation into actor Sushant Singh Rajput’s death, has been recognised with the Medal for Meritorious Service (MSM) this year.

A 2007-batch AGMUT cadre officer, Ms Prasad recently returned to the Delhi Police after completing her tenure with the CBI. She is currently serving as Joint Commissioner of Police in the Economic Offences Wing (EOW), where she oversees investigations involving financial and economic crimes.

The award is part of this year’s recognition for police personnel for distinguished and meritorious service. Such honours recognise contributions in areas including investigation, crime prevention, public service, law and order and administration.

Nupur Prasad’s role in Sushant Singh Rajput case

Ms Prasad came into national focus during the CBI investigation into the death of Sushant Singh Rajput, who was found dead at his Mumbai residence on June 14, 2020.

The case was transferred to the CBI in August 2020 following a complaint by the actor’s family and a legal dispute over jurisdiction.

During her tenure with the agency, Ms Prasad supervised key aspects of the investigation, including the examination of witness statements, forensic evidence and medical records.

In 2025, the CBI filed closure reports, saying its investigation found no evidence of foul play, abetment to suicide or criminal conspiracy in the actor’s death.

Career across Delhi Police, CBI

Ms Prasad has served in several positions during her career, including assignments in the Delhi Police, CBI, Arunachal Pradesh and West Bengal.

Before joining the CBI, she held senior positions in the Delhi Police and became the first Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) of Shahdara. During her tenure, she worked on establishing the district’s policing framework following its creation.

She also led operations targeting drug networks and illegal gambling activities while focusing on crime-prevention measures.

Later, as DCP of North Delhi, she oversaw security arrangements for major events, including Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort and Delhi University elections.

Community-focused policing initiatives

Beyond investigations, Ms Prasad has been associated with community-focused programmes involving women’s self-defence, youth development, cyber safety and drug de-addiction.

During her CBI tenure, she was also associated with several prominent investigations. Media reports have linked her to cases concerning businessman Vijay Mallya and the AgustaWestland helicopter deal.

Current role in Delhi Police

After completing her assignment with the CBI, Ms Prasad returned to the Delhi Police and took charge as Joint Commissioner of Police in the Economic Offences Wing.

The latest recognition adds to her career spanning investigations, policing and public service across several challenging assignments.

India News

Kharge, Rahul Gandhi skip Independence Day event for 2nd straight year

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi skipped the 80th Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort for the second consecutive year.

Published

1 day ago

August 15, 2026

APNLive Desk

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi skipped the 80th Independence Day celebrations at Delhi’s Red Fort for the second consecutive year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the Independence Day celebrations at the historic venue on Saturday.

The absence of the two senior Congress leaders comes amid strained relations between the ruling party and the Opposition, which further deteriorated during the Monsoon Session of Parliament that concluded on Thursday.

2024 seating controversy

Rahul Gandhi had attended the Independence Day celebrations in 2024 but his seating arrangement triggered a controversy. The Congress leader, who holds the status of a Cabinet minister as Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, was seated in the second-last row during the ceremony at the Red Fort.

The Opposition had criticised the seating arrangement, calling it an insult to the people. The Defence Ministry, which organised the event, said the arrangement had been modified to accommodate Olympians at the venue.

According to protocol, the Leader of the Opposition is seated in the front row during ceremonial events.

Opposition-ruling party tensions

Relations between the government and the Opposition remained tense during the Monsoon Session, which ended on Thursday.

The session saw repeated clashes between the two sides, with both the Opposition and the ruling party blaming each other for the low productivity of Parliament.

The session began on July 20, with students marching towards Parliament on the first day. Twelve bills were passed during the session, while detailed discussion took place on only one legislation, concerning paper leaks.

The Congress, along with the Trinamool Congress and Samajwadi Party, also boycotted the customary tea party hosted by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla after the House was adjourned sine die.