While state governments in Karnataka, Gujarat, and Maharashtra downplayed the threat, the Delhi government has urged hospitals in the capital to remain prepared for a possible surge in respiratory illnesses.

While the Karnataka, Gujarat and Maharashtra governments assured that there was no cause for alarm, the Delhi government directed all hospitals in the capital to remain fully prepared to manage a potential surge in respiratory illnesses.

The Gujarat government issued an advisory asking people to cover their face while sneezing, avoid going to crowded places, keep distance from flu-infected persons, get adequate sleep and drink water as much as possible and contact a doctor for any respiratory issues.

Gujarat's Ahmedabad reported a suspected case of the Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) in a two-month-old baby at a private hospital in Chandkheda.

"It is emphasized that HMPV is already in circulation globally, including in India, and cases of respiratory illnesses associated with HMPV have been reported in various countries. Furthermore, based on current data from ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) network,

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday said that Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) of which two cases have been detected in the state is not dangerous, but it is good to take precautions

HMPV in India: Six infants have tested positive for the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Gujarat on Monday. Following this, Centre and various statement government have issued advisories to prevent the spread of the virus.

To prevent escalation of the spread of the virus, people are advised to cover their mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, wash hands frequently with soap, avoid public places if symptomatic and close contact with sick persons.

HMPV, a respiratory virus that typically causes mild to moderate flu-like symptoms, hit headlines last week first with unconfirmed reports of a surge in infections in China surfaced. HMPV was confirmed in India on Monday with three cases being detected.