‘India well-prepared’
New Delhi: The Union health ministry on Saturday called for public composure in light of concerns regarding the potential spread of HMPV (human metapneumovirus) in China, emphasizing that India is “well-prepared” to manage respiratory illnesses and that the circumstances in China are “not unusual.”
In response to the recent reports of increasing respiratory illnesses in China, a Joint Monitoring Group meeting was convened in Delhi, chaired by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, as stated in a press release from the Centre.
The meeting included participation from various experts representing the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Disaster Management (DM) Cell, the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the Emergency Medical Relief (EMR) Division, and hospitals such as AIIMS Delhi.
Following a thorough discussion regarding HMPV, the ministry concluded that the situation in China “is not unusual given the current flu season.” The ministry further noted that the recent surge is attributed to the Influenza virus, RSV, and HMPV—pathogens typically observed during this time of year.
Moreover, the central government stated that it is diligently monitoring the situation through all available channels and has requested the World Health Organisation to provide regular updates concerning the developments in China. “These viruses are already circulating globally, including in India,” it remarked.
Additionally, the Centre highlighted that India has an effective surveillance system in place for Influenza Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) related to Influenza. It pointed out that data from both the ICMR and IDSP networks indicate no significant rise in ILI and SARI cases.
Hospital authorities have also confirmed that there has been no increase in respiratory illness cases over the past few weeks, aside from the typical seasonal fluctuations.
The ICMR network also conducts tests for various respiratory viruses, including Adenovirus, RSV, and HMPV. According to the health ministry, these pathogens have not exhibited any significant increase in the samples tested. To enhance precautionary measures, the ICMR will increase the number of laboratories conducting tests for HMPV and will monitor HMPV trends throughout the year.
Recent preparedness drills conducted nationwide indicate that India is adequately equipped to manage any potential rise in respiratory illnesses. The health systems and surveillance networks remain alert, ensuring the country is prepared to respond swiftly to any emerging health issues, as stated by the Health ministry.
Dr. Atul Goel, Director-General of DGHS, remarked on Friday that HMPV is comparable to other respiratory viruses that cause common colds. He encouraged the public to follow standard precautions applicable to all respiratory infections, advising individuals with coughs and colds to limit contact with others to prevent the spread of infection. “Utilize the usual medications for cold and fever. There is no cause for concern in the current situation,” Dr. Goel stated.
