China has said that it is in close communication with WHO. In India, two fresh cases were reported in Gujarat on Saturday, taking the total HMPV tally to five in the state whereas in Pondy, a 3-year-old infected with HMPV was discharged on Saturday.

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HMPV leads to flu-like symptoms and typically affects the upper respiratory system, though it can occasionally cause lower respiratory infections. Check state-wise list of cases reported so far, read 10 major insights to go through.

HMPV causes flu or cold-like symptoms including fever, cough and nasal congestion. The symptoms often clear up by themselves, though they can cause lower respiratory tract infections among children, older adults and those immunocompromised.

Stay updated on live HMPV virus cases state-wise reports and health ministry guidelines Learn about human metapneumovirus and how to stay protected effectively

Assam reported its first case of hMPV or human metapneumovirus this season on Saturday. The affected is a 10-month-old baby who tested positive in Dibrugarh. The infant is currently undergoing treatment at the Assam Medical College and Hospital in Dibrugarh.

The virus, which was first isolated in 2001, is just like any other respiratory virus that spreads through air, entering the body via nose, mouth, or eyes after one comes in close contact with an infected person.

India's first case of HMPV was identified in Karnataka earlier this week. Since then, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Gujarat have also reported HMPV infections. While HMPV is not a new infection, the current outbreak has raised alarm bells due to a high number of cases in China.

Assam has reported its first case of Human Metapneumovirus detected in a 10-month-old infant. The infant has been admitted to Assam Medical College and Hospital (AMCH) in Dibrugarh and the doctors said his health condition is stable.

Gujarat reported another case of HMPV or human metapneumovirus infection in Ahmedabad city on Thursday, January 9, after an 80-year-old man tested positive for the respiratory virus. This is the first case in India where an elderly has been found infected with HMPV.