No Surge in Respiratory Illness: Health Ministry Reviews HMPV Status and Public Health Measures
SciFocus/Jan 7, 2025/Press Release — Respiratory illnesses are under control in India, with no unusual surge reported, even amidst global concerns about human metapneumovirus (HMPV). The Union Health Secretary, Ms. Punya Salila Srivastava, chaired a meeting to assess the situation and reinforce public health measures.
“India is well-prepared to manage respiratory illnesses, with robust surveillance and diagnostic facilities in place.”
Key Highlights:
- Current Status:
- No unusual rise in influenza-like illness (ILI) or severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) cases reported.
- Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) has been globally present since 2001, causing mostly mild, self-limiting infections.
- Preventive Measures:
- States advised to strengthen ILI/SARI surveillance systems.
- Public awareness campaigns encouraged to promote preventive habits like:
- Regular handwashing.
- Avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals.
- Covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Diagnostic Readiness:
- Adequate testing facilities available through ICMR-VRDL labs for early detection and management.
HMPV Insight:
- Commonly affects all age groups during winter and early spring.
- Most cases recover without complications.
India continues to monitor respiratory illnesses with vigilance, ensuring early detection and effective management.
Source: Press Information Bureau
