As concern over the spread of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) grows following the confirmation of two cases in Bengaluru, Medial Education Minister Sharan Prakash Patil has clarified to the public that it is not a new virus, urging them not to panic.

Addressing presspersons in Kalaburagi on Monday, Dr. Patil said that the government is closely monitoring the situation and it will take the necessary steps to ensure public safety.

The Minister said that HMPV is a common respiratory virus that typically causes mild cold-like symptoms in children and old-age groups and people can take medicine normally prescribed for cold and fever.

Replying to a query whether there is any test to detect HMPV, Dr. Patil said that the multiplex PCR test can detect 17 respiratory pathogens (viruses), but conducting such a test is not required as of now.

He advised people to take general precautions and avoid coming in contact with people to prevent the spread of infection.