6
Jan
Amid concerns over HMPV outbreak in China, 2 cases detected in Karnataka: Health Ministry
Director-General of Health Services, Dr. Atul Goel reassured public that there is no cause for concern as Health Ministry confirms that two cases of Human Metapneumovirus detected in state of Karnataka.
ICMR confirms that Surveillance System is Robust & No Unusual Surge in ILI or SARI cases in the country.
Dr Goel explained that HMPV is similar to other respiratory viruses, typically causing mild cold-like symptoms, with flu-like symptoms in very young or elderly individuals.
Also, he emphasized, “that hospitals in India are fully prepared to handle the seasonal rise in respiratory infections, with adequate supplies and beds available. He urged people to follow basic hygiene practices, and take general precautions to stay safe during the winter season.”
HMPV is not new virus said pediatrician who treated it since 2022
Hyderabad paediatrician Dr Sivaranjani Santosh who has treated the cases of this virus since 2022 quoted saying, “We see it every year,” she said. “It’s not a mystery virus. If there’s a new mutation, there is no information about it as of now. Let’s stay vigilant but avoid creating unnecessary suspense or panic. Precautions are essential, as always.”
Dr Sivaranjani also pointed out on the importance of public awareness about the HMPV Viruses. “We need to remain vigilant but not panic. It is something we encounter annually, but it’s crucial to monitor closely for potential new mutations. As of now, there’s no such news. We must repeatedly educate the public on preventing the spread of respiratory viruses — whether it’s hMPV, influenza, or RSV.”
Health Minister of Karnataka Dinesh Rao Said, “This is an existing virus that has been circulating for years, and a certain percentage of people are affected by it annually. It is not a new virus. The infant in this case has no travel history and is from a local area, not linked to China, Malaysia, or any other country”.
There has been one case reported from private hospital in Ahmedabad Gujarat also. Making total tally for active cases in India to 3 as of now.
DGHS to hold a meeting with the states today on HMPV virus guidelines and precautionary measures to be taken.
WHO has overruled of any kind of HMPV outbreak & confirmed that they has not noticed any kind of surge in HMPV cases in China which would lead to hospitals get overwhelmed and emergency needs to be declared as of now.
WHO has stated that, "Recently, there has been interest in hMPV cases in China including suggestions of hospitals being overwhelmed. hMPV is a common respiratory virus found to circulate in many countries in winter through to spring, although not all countries routinely test and publish data on trends in hMPV . Chinese authorities report that the health care system is not overwhelmed and there have been no emergency declarations or responses triggered."
In statement World Health Organization also mentioned, "WHO continues to monitor respiratory illnesses at global, regional and country levels through collaborative surveillance systems, and provides updates as needed. In many countries of the Northern Hemisphere, trends in acute respiratory infections increase at this time of year. These increases are typically caused by seasonal epidemics of respiratory pathogens such as seasonal influenza, RSV, and other common respiratory viruses, including hMPV, as well as mycoplasma pneumoniae."
Indian Health Minister also came forward and clarified that, "Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is not a new virus and has been circulating globally for many years. The health systems and surveillance networks of the country remain vigilant, ensuring the country is ready to respond promptly to any emerging health challenges. There is no cause for concern, and we are closely monitoring the situation."
