The second case of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) was detected in a three-month-old baby girl in the south Indian state of Karnataka on Monday (Jan 6), soon after an eight-month-old became the first reported case of the virus.

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The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) confirmed the cases, according to a report by ANI news agency.

The cases were identified through blood tests and routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens. 

Also read: India's first positive HMPV virus case detected in Bengaluru

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Though it was recently detected in China, HMPV is already in circulation in various countries including India, according to several health agencies.

The cases of respiratory illnesses that are associated with HMPV have also been previously reported.

The three-month-old patient diagnosed with HMPV was discharged by the Baptist Hospital.

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She has a history of bronchopneumonia. 

The first patient, who was admitted to hospital on January 3, also has a history of bronchopneumonia.

However, the infant is still in hospital and recovering.

According to the sources cited in Indian media, the Karnataka health department has received the sample and it will be sent to Pune for testing.

The department also lacks information on the strain of virus as Chinese authorities have not shared any data on the variant that was discovered there.

The Indian health ministry has taken cognisance of the situation and asked general public to not panic.

The ministry said that India has requested the World Health Organisation for regular updates and closely monitoring the global situation of HMPV through various channels.

Also read: 'No unusual surge': Indian health ministry on rise in HMPV, respiratory illnesses in China

Delhi health authorities also issued an advisory to ensure preparedness in case of an outbreak in the national capital.

Strict isolation protocols and use of universal precautions for even suspected cases have been made mandatory. The hospitals have also been advised to maintain a documentation of such cases to ensure accuracy in monitoring.

(With inputs from agencies)