Amid growing concerns over the rise in respiratory illness cases in China, particularly related to HMPV (Human Metapneumovirus), India’s Union Health Ministry has reassured the public that the situation is under control and that the country is well-prepared to handle any potential outbreaks. The ministry emphasized that the current situation in China is “not unusual,” with the rise in cases linked to the ongoing flu season.
On Saturday, a joint monitoring meeting was held in Delhi, led by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, alongside experts from the World Health Organization (WHO), the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and other key health bodies. The meeting focused on tracking the spread of HMPV, RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), and influenza, which are common pathogens during the flu season.
The Ministry confirmed that India has a robust surveillance system in place to monitor Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI). Data from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and ICMR networks indicate no significant uptick in cases of these illnesses. Hospital authorities have also reported no unusual rise in respiratory illness cases, beyond typical seasonal variations.
The health ministry also clarified that viruses like HMPV are already circulating globally, including in India, and that there is no cause for alarm. As a precaution, the ICMR will enhance testing for HMPV across more laboratories and will continue to monitor trends throughout the year.
Dr. Atul Goel, DGHS, further reassured the public, advising them to take the usual precautions for respiratory infections, such as avoiding close contact if exhibiting symptoms like cough or cold. “There is no reason to be alarmed,” he stated, urging the public to use normal medications for cold and fever.
