In response to reports of a surge in cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China, the Indian government has assured citizens that the situation is not unusual given the ongoing flu season. A joint monitoring group, chaired by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), convened today in New Delhi to discuss the emerging situation. The group consisted of experts from the World Health Organization, Indian Council of Medical Research, and other medical bodies.
Cause of the Surge:
The joint monitoring group attributes the current surge in HMPV cases in China to common seasonal respiratory viruses, including influenza, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and HMPV. These are the typical pathogens identified during the flu season, and their presence has been confirmed as the cause of the surge.
India’s Surveillance System:
The Indian government is keeping a close eye on the situation through a robust surveillance system. This system, established through the ICMR and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), has reported no unusual increase in cases of influenza-like illness (ILI) or severe acute respiratory illness (SARI). Medical experts confirmed that while seasonal fluctuations in respiratory illnesses are common, there has been no surge in cases in the country over recent weeks.
Further to that, the ICMR will also increase the number of laboratories conducting tests for HMPV. Also, it would keep a trend of respiratory viruses throughout the year. The results of a recent preparedness drill across the country have shown that India is in good stead to handle the situation if HMPV sees an increase in its cases.
Official Statements and Public Reassurance:
Dr. Atul Goel, a senior official with DGHS, has assured people that they should not panic over reports of an HMPV outbreak in China. He said that HMPV is one of the common respiratory viruses that cause cold-like symptoms among the elderly and young children. Additionally, hospitals are always prepared for outbreaks of respiratory viruses that occur every winter season as part of the yearly cycle.
The Indian government is taking proactive steps to monitor and manage the situation. Despite the concern in China, Indian health officials clarified that there was no cause for alarm. Public health advice on standard precautions for respiratory infections remains in place; however, no unusual surge has been reported within the country.