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

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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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Security tightened across Delhi metro stations after bomb threat emails

Delhi is on high alert after bomb threat emails targeted metro stations, the Red Fort and the Assembly. Authorities confirmed the threats were hoaxes but tightened security as a precaution.

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Delhi Metro

Security has been intensified across all metro stations and major installations in the national capital after a series of bomb threat emails were received on Monday. Authorities later confirmed that the threats were hoaxes following detailed inspections by security agencies.

According to officials, several key institutions — including the Delhi Secretariat, Delhi Assembly, the Red Fort and two schools — received threatening emails earlier in the day. Extensive searches were carried out at all the locations mentioned in the messages, but nothing suspicious was found.

A senior police officer said cyber teams are working to trace the origin of the emails. Preliminary findings suggest that the senders may have used Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) in an attempt to conceal their identities and mislead investigators. Officials expressed confidence that those responsible would be identified.

Metro stations under heightened surveillance

Following specific references to metro services in the emails, security arrangements were strengthened across the entire network of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation. Additional personnel have been deployed at stations, and anti-sabotage checks are being conducted.

Police said random frisking of passengers and intensified CCTV surveillance are being carried out as part of precautionary measures. Bomb disposal squads and dog squads were stationed at sensitive sites, including the Red Fort, Delhi Secretariat and the Assembly complex.

The threatening emails reportedly included the slogan “Delhi banega Khalistan” and warned of explosions at an Army school, the Assembly and the Red Fort at specific times during the day. Officials stated that all mentioned locations were thoroughly checked and declared safe.

Authorities also coordinated with counterparts in neighbouring states to enhance security at metro stations falling under their jurisdictions.

While no explosives were found, officials said the tightened security arrangements will remain in place as a precaution. Cyber teams continue efforts to trace the IP addresses and identify those behind the threat emails.

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JNU protest turns violent as Left and Right student groups trade charges

A late-night protest at JNU turned violent as Left and ABVP student groups accused each other of stone-throwing and attacks near the East Gate.

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JNU Protest

Tension gripped the campus of Jawaharlal Nehru University in the early hours of Monday after a protest march allegedly spiralled into violence, with rival student groups accusing each other of triggering the unrest.

Students claimed that the incident occurred around 1.30 am when a confrontation broke out during a march called by the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students’ Union. The protest, named “Samta Juloos”, was headed towards the East Gate and was organised to demand the resignation of Vice-Chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit and the withdrawal of a rustication order.

According to protesters, several students were injured after alleged stone-throwing during the clash. They alleged that the university administration did not intervene during the march and instead permitted members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad to confront demonstrators.

However, the ABVP denied the allegations and countered that Left-affiliated organisations instigated the confrontation and were spreading misinformation about the events.

Left-backed groups, including the All India Students’ Association, claimed that ABVP activists targeted the JNUSU encampment and hurled stones at “unarmed students”, leading to multiple injuries.

Videos shared by students on social media reportedly showed chaotic scenes near the protest site, with members of rival groups engaged in heated exchanges and physical scuffles.

University authorities did not immediately respond to queries regarding the incident. Students said the situation on campus remained tense following the overnight clashes.

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World praised India’s AI potential at AI Impact Summit, says PM Modi

PM Modi said the world praised India’s AI potential at the AI Impact Summit 2026, where 89 countries endorsed the New Delhi Declaration on artificial intelligence.

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pm modi speech

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that the world wholeheartedly praised India’s potential during the recently concluded AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi, highlighting the growing global confidence in the country’s young technology talent.

In a post on X, the Prime Minister said the summit demonstrated how the mindset of India’s youth in the field of technology would serve humanity at large. He described the event as historic and underlined the positive global response to India’s AI capabilities.

The AI Impact Summit 2026, organised in New Delhi last week, concluded with the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration on AI Impact. The declaration has been endorsed by 89 countries and international organisations, signalling broad global agreement on promoting artificial intelligence for economic growth and social welfare.

Broad global participation

The summit saw the participation of several prominent world leaders and top technology executives. Among those present were UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, French President Emmanuel Macron, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, and Swiss President Guy Parmelin.

Other leaders attending the summit included Sri Lanka President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Croatia Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, Serbia President Aleksandar Vucic, Seychelles Vice President Sebastien Pillay, Estonia President Alar Karis, and Finland Prime Minister Petteri Orpo.

Chief executives and senior leaders from major global technology firms were also part of the gathering.

Focus on inclusive AI growth

Held under the theme ‘Sarvajan Hitay, Sarvajan Sukhay’ (welfare for all, happiness of all), the summit aimed to position India as a global leader in artificial intelligence while ensuring that AI development remains inclusive and sustainable.

The event brought together more than 500 international AI leaders. This included around 100 CEOs and founders, 150 academicians and researchers, and 400 CTOs, vice presidents and philanthropists. Additionally, over 100 government representatives and nearly 60 ministers and vice ministers participated in discussions.

The New Delhi Declaration seeks to strengthen international cooperation and ensure that AI technologies contribute to economic progress, social good and environmental protection.

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