Kolkata:The human metapneumovirus (HMPV), which has recently caused concern in China, was detected in Kolkata a month and a half ago. In early November, a five-month-old child was admitted to a private hospital on the bypass in Kolkata after contracting the virus. The child, a resident of Jadavpur, had been in Mumbai due to his parents' jobs, but fell ill upon visiting Kolkata. Initially suffering from a fever and stomach ache, the child later experienced breathing problems and decreased oxygen saturation, requiring respiratory support.
Dr Saheli Dasgupta, who supervised the child’s treatment, explained that saliva samples were collected and tested, confirming the presence of HMPV. After spending time in the ICU, the child recovered and was discharged within two weeks. "Now the child is fine," she confirmed.
HMPV has been making headlines due to its rapid spread in China, creating fear due to its perceived similarity to the Coronavirus. However, doctors reassured the public that there was no immediate cause for alarm. Dr Saheli Dasgupta noted that this is the first child with HMPV admitted to the hospital in the last six months, highlighting that this virus is not new and should not trigger unnecessary panic.