HMP Virus arrives in Kolkata! 5-month-old tests positive

The HMP virus, a novel strain originating from China, has reached Kolkata, with a five-month-old infant testing positive. This marks the fourth confirmed case in India, following earlier detections in Karnataka and Gujarat. None of the infected children, including the infant in Kolkata, have any history of international travel, raising concerns about community transmission pathways.

The affected child in Kolkata, whose family resides in Mumbai due to professional commitments, was admitted to a private hospital near Panchasayar after falling ill during a visit to the city in November. The child, now healthy, was discharged following treatment. However, subsequent tests confirmed the presence of the HMP virus, making it the first recorded case in West Bengal.

Earlier in the day, three other children across India—two from Karnataka and one from Gujarat—tested positive for the HMP virus. Health authorities have initiated investigations into how these children, with no travel history, contracted the virus.

Despite the detection, medical experts have urged calm. Dr. Suman Poddar, a senior pediatrician, stated, "The HMP virus is not a new phenomenon, and there is no cause for alarm. While the virus can lead to respiratory issues such as pneumonia in children, vigilance and proper care are sufficient at this stage."

Health departments across states are on high alert, monitoring cases and advising hospitals to report any unusual respiratory illnesses, particularly among children.

Parents are encouraged to observe basic precautions, such as maintaining hygiene, avoiding crowded areas, and seeking immediate medical attention if their children exhibit symptoms like difficulty breathing or persistent fever.