Update on HMPV: Centre Reviews Respiratory Illness Situation in India, Advises States for Stronger Surveillance and Public Awareness
Union Health Secretary reviews respiratory illness situation in India, emphasizing stronger surveillance and public awareness measures
New Delhi, January 7, 2025: Union Health Secretary Ms. Punya Salila Srivastava chaired a virtual meeting with health officials from States and Union Territories to assess the current status of respiratory illnesses in India. This meeting comes in response to media reports regarding a surge in human metapneumovirus (HMPV) cases in China. Senior health experts from institutions such as the NCDC, IDSP, ICMR, and NIV, along with State Surveillance Units, participated in the discussion.
No Surge in Respiratory Illness Cases
The Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) data, supported by sentinel surveillance data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), has confirmed no unusual rise in Influenza-like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) cases across India.
Ms. Srivastava reassured the public that there is no need for concern about HMPV in the country. The virus, which has been globally present since 2001, is not currently causing a surge in cases. Respiratory infections, including HMPV, are commonly observed during winter months and are usually mild, with most patients recovering without complications.
Enhanced Surveillance and Public Awareness Measures
States have been advised to strengthen their ILI/SARI surveillance mechanisms to ensure early detection and effective response to any rise in cases. The Health Secretary also urged states to focus on public awareness campaigns emphasizing preventive health practices such as:
- Washing hands frequently with soap and water.
- Avoiding touching the face with unwashed hands.
- Practicing proper respiratory hygiene by covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.
- Avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals.
Diagnostic Preparedness
The Ministry highlighted that adequate diagnostic facilities for HMPV are available across the country through the ICMR-VRDL laboratories, ensuring the health system’s preparedness for any potential rise in cases.
The Health Ministry remains committed to safeguarding public health and urges citizens to follow simple preventive measures to reduce the risk of respiratory infections.
Article based on a press release by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India on January 07, 2025
