Maharashtra Health Minister Prakash Abitkar has urged the public to remain calm following the detection of two suspected Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in Nagpur. He emphasized that HMPV is neither new nor as dangerous as COVID-19, and there is no need to reintroduce measures like isolation or mandatory mask-wearing.
The suspected cases involve two children, aged 7 and 13, who have been treated and discharged. Deputy Director of Health Shashikant Shambharkar confirmed that their samples will be sent to AIIMS Nagpur for further examination.
Abitkar highlighted that HMPV has been present for many years and is not as severe as COVID-19. He referenced findings from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), which reported that out of 8,052 samples tested nationwide, 172 were HMPV positive. All cases were moderate, did not require hospitalization, and resulted in no deaths. The minister advised that precautions should be taken, especially for individuals with weakened immune systems, such as cancer and pneumonia patients, as well as children.
The Maharashtra health department has issued guidelines for the public to follow, emphasizing that there is no need for panic. Abitkar stated, “Please keep yourself safe by following the guidelines issued by the Maharashtra Health Department and the central government’s health department…there is no need for people to panic.”
In response to the situation, the Maharashtra government has set up a task force to monitor and manage HMPV cases. The health department is on alert mode over a possible surge in the number of cases and is urging people to remain calm and not panic.
The central government has also advised states to monitor respiratory diseases, including Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI), and to spread awareness about preventing the transmission of HMPV.
HMPV is a common respiratory virus that causes upper and lower respiratory infections. There is no specific antiviral treatment for HMPV; prevention remains key to controlling its spread.
The public is advised to follow health guidelines, maintain good hygiene practices, and consult healthcare professionals if they experience respiratory symptoms.
