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The world, still recovering from the devastating COVID-19 pandemic, faces a new health challenge in the form of the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). Reports suggest that this virus, which primarily affects the respiratory system, has caused a fresh wave of concern globally. While the outbreak originates in China, cases have now been reported in India and other parts of the world, prompting heightened surveillance and precautionary measures.
HMPV Cases Detected in India
India has reported a total of 10 confirmed cases of HMPV, with infections identified across multiple states:
- Bengaluru: 2 cases
- Gujarat: 1 case
- Chennai: 2 cases
- Kolkata: 3 cases
- Nagpur: 2 cases
In response, the central government has urged states to strengthen their monitoring systems for respiratory illnesses, including influenza-like illnesses (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI).
What Is Human Metapneumovirus?
HMPV is a respiratory virus that affects individuals of all ages but is particularly severe in infants and young children. Its symptoms include:
- Cough
- Mild fever
- Wheezing
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Difficulty in breathing (in severe cases)
The virus shares similarities with COVID-19 but is generally considered less severe.
Government Response and Public Health Measures
Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda assured the public that India’s surveillance network is alert and prepared to handle any health emergency. “There is no cause for panic,” he stated, emphasizing the country’s readiness.
A high-level virtual meeting chaired by Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava brought together officials from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and other health bodies. Key recommendations from the meeting included:
- Strengthening surveillance for ILI and SARI cases.
- Encouraging public health awareness campaigns.
- Advising citizens to practice basic hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals.
- Wearing masks in crowded places to prevent transmission.
State Governments Take Action
States like Odisha, Karnataka, Punjab, and Jharkhand have issued directives to medical facilities to stay on high alert. Odisha’s Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling reassured the public that no cases have been detected in the state, but measures are in place for any eventuality.
Similarly, health officials in Karnataka, Punjab, and Jharkhand have emphasized that while the situation is under control, preventive measures like wearing masks and avoiding crowded spaces are critical.
Expert Opinion on HMPV
Dr. N. Priya, District Medical Officer in Kerala’s Kottayam, highlighted that HMPV is not a new virus and can be easily managed with proper precautions. “Simple measures like wearing masks and maintaining hygiene can protect against this virus,” she said.
Global Monitoring
India has communicated with the World Health Organization (WHO) to provide regular updates on HMPV cases. With many countries monitoring its spread, experts stress the importance of collaborative efforts to prevent another pandemic-scale outbreak.