HMPV In India: The Health Ministry is alert regarding HMPV human metapneumovirus and is closely monitoring it. According to the information given by the ministry on Tuesday, the Union Health Secretary has reviewed the current situation of respiratory diseases in the country and the status of public health measures for their management.
There is no surge in respiratory diseases in the country. Strong surveillance is being done to detect such cases. At the same time, states were advised to increase awareness among the public about preventive measures. States have been advised to strengthen and review ILI/SARI surveillance.
Big meeting of Union Health Secretary
Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava held a meeting with States/UTs in virtual mode on Monday to review the current situation of respiratory diseases in India and the status of HMPV cases following media reports of increase in HMPV cases in China. presided over. Secretary (DHR) Dr Rajeev Bahl, Dr (Professor) Atul Goyal, DGHS, health secretaries and officials of states, experts from state surveillance units of NCDC, IDSP, ICMR, NIV and IDSP were present in the meeting.
The meeting was informed that IDSP data does not indicate any unusual increase in ILI/SARI cases anywhere in the country. This is also confirmed by ICMR sentinel monitoring data. The Union Health Secretary stressed that there is no cause for concern for the public over HMPV, which has been present globally since 2001. He advised states to strengthen and review ILI/SARI surveillance. He reiterated that an increase in respiratory diseases is generally seen during the winter months. He also said that the country is well prepared for any possible increase in cases of the respiratory disease.
Symptoms of HMVP
According to information provided by the ministry, human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is one of several respiratory viruses that can cause infection in people of all ages, especially during the winter and early spring months. Virus infections are usually mild and self-limited and most cases resolve on their own. It was told that adequate diagnostic facilities are available in ICMR-VRDL laboratories.
Advisory given to states
An advisory was issued by the ministry to the states in which it has been said that emphasis should be given on increasing IEC and awareness among the population regarding prevention of transmission of the virus with simple measures like frequent hand washing with soap and water. Avoid touching their eyes, nose or mouth with dirty hands. Avoid close contact with people who are showing symptoms of the disease. Cover mouth and nose while coughing and sneezing etc. Spread awareness among people regarding this. Along with this, states have been advised to strengthen and review ILI/SARI surveillance.
