HMPV alert: We are talking everywhere about the HMVP virus (Human Metapneumovirus) which is causing a sensation in China. Some cases have also been revealed in India. After which all the experts as well as the Ministry of Health were put on alert. Particular surveillance is being exercised regarding cases linked to this virus. Commenting on this, Delhi Medical Council Chairman and Senior Pediatrician Dr Arun Gupta said that there is need to be concerned about this. He said that looking at the cases of HMPV virus revealed in India, it can currently be said that there is no need for worry and there is no need to panic.
It is important to be careful
However, according to the doctor, infections caused by this virus have already occurred and such cases have been reported earlier in all countries. In India, these cases were discovered during routine surveillance. Experts also say that there is no unexpected increase (rapid increase) in cases of illnesses with flu-like symptoms, so it can be said that such concern is not necessary.
However, the doctor explains that despite how precautions have been taken during Corona, some precautions can still be taken, such as wearing a mask, keeping a tissue on the nose when sneezing, washing hands thoroughly and avoiding for the busy places.
Meeting regarding HMVP
According to reports, the Health Ministry has convened a meeting of the Joint Monitoring Group in view of the increase in virus cases in China. This meeting was organized under the presidency of the DGHS, Ministry of Health and Family Affairs. In this meeting, all experts from World Health Organization, Disaster Management Cell, Integrated Disease Surveillance Program, National Center for Disease Control, Indian Council of Medical Research, the Emergency Medical Services Division and hospitals were involved.
It was decided at this meeting that the current situation in China is not unusual, since it is flu season. It was informed that reports show that the current increase in cases is due to influenza virus, RSV and HMPV, which are common pathogens this season.
Keeping a constant eye on China
In a briefing after the meeting, the ministry said the government was closely monitoring the situation in China through all available channels and the WHO had also been asked to share timely updates on the situation in China. This virus has already been identified in countries around the world and many cases have been reported. In India, rigorous surveillance of influenza-like illnesses and acute respiratory illnesses is already carried out through the ICMR and IDSP networks.
The data shows that there has been no unusual increase in ILI and SARI cases. Hospital doctors also confirmed that there has been no increase in cases of respiratory diseases in recent weeks, apart from seasonal changes…
Preparing to face the virus
It was also informed in the meeting that ICMR would increase the number of laboratories testing HMPV and keep an eye on HMPV trends throughout the year. Data from preparedness exercises conducted recently across the country shows that the country is well prepared to deal with any increase in respiratory diseases. According to the information given at the end of this meeting, it was indicated that the health system and surveillance networks remain vigilant and ensure that the country is ready to immediately respond to any emerging health challenges.
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