Assam: HMPV reported in Dibrugarh, doctors say no need to worry

Dibrugarh: After the first Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) case was reported in Dibrugarh, Assam, doctors have assured that there was no need to worry.

Dr Biswajit Borkakoty, senior scientist at ICMR-RMRC said this is not an isolated incident, as the region has reported 110 cases of HMPV since 2014.

The latest case was detected in a child admitted to Assam Medical College and Hospital (AMCH).

The hospital, lacking a virology unit, sent the sample to ICMR-RMRC for testing, which confirmed the presence of HMPV.

AMCH Principal-cum-Superintendent Sanjib Kakoty reassured that the virus is not new and does not pose a significant threat.

"The condition of the child is stable, and there is nothing to worry about this virus," he stated.

HMPV is a common virus that affects people of all ages, particularly children and older adults, doctors said.

While it can cause respiratory illnesses, the virus is typically not life-threatening.