Pakistani health authorities reported two confirmed cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Wah Cantt, a suburban area near Islamabad.
Media reports confirmed that both patients showed mild symptoms and have since made a full recovery.
The samples from the patients were sent to the National Institute of Health (NIH) in Islamabad, where HMPV was confirmed through testing.
While the Ministry of NHSR&C reassured the public that there is no major outbreak in Islamabad or its surrounding areas, they highlighted the importance of continued surveillance.
Health officials noted that sporadic HMPV cases have been reported across Pakistan, especially in major urban centers like Islamabad, Karachi, and other large cities. As part of routine influenza surveillance, the NIH has been testing flu-related samples for HMPV.
Medical experts emphasized that HMPV is not a cause for widespread concern, advising the public to follow standard preventive measures such as good hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and seeking medical attention if symptoms worsen.
HMPV’s presence in Pakistan was officially acknowledged during a recent session of the National Assembly, where Parliamentary Secretary for Health, Dr. Darshan Lal, confirmed its detection in the country. First identified in 2001, HMPV can cause a range of symptoms, from mild cold-like issues to more severe respiratory problems, particularly in vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.
The NIH, a key institution for disease surveillance in Pakistan, is urging citizens to stay vigilant and report any unusual respiratory symptoms to healthcare providers.
Source: Daily Jang
