नवीनतम
HMPV not a new virus, no need to worry: Nadda
NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: The detection of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infections in infants across Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat has sparked public concern, but experts and authorities emphasize there is no need to panic. While the virus primarily affects children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immunity, officials have reiterated that it is not a new pathogen and cases remain manageable with symptomatic care.
Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda has said, that HMPV is not a new virus and there is no need to worry. In a video message on social media, the Health Minister said, the HMPV virus was first identified in the year 2001 and it has been circulating in the world for many years.
He said that HMPV spreads through air, by way of respiration and can affect persons of all age groups. Mr Nadda added that the health systems and surveillance networks of the country remain vigilant, ensuring that the country is ready to respond promptly to any emerging health challenges.
The Centre has advised states to step up surveillance for respiratory illnesses including ILI and SARI, and spread awareness about the prevention of transmission of the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) after five cases were detected in India.
Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava on Monday chaired a virtual meeting with states and union territories to take stock of respiratory illnesses and HMPV cases in the country and public health measures for their management, a health ministry statement said.
The meeting was attended by Health Research Department Secretary Dr Rajiv Bahl, Director General of Health Services Dr Atul Goel, experts from National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme, (IDSP), Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR), National Institute of Virology (NIV) and State Surveillance Units of IDSP, a health ministry statement said.
"HMPV is a known virus causing mild respiratory infections. Rather than panicking, follow precautions like wearing masks, hand hygiene, and avoiding crowds when symptomatic", Dr Soumya Swaminathan said.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) confirmed that HMPV accounts for approximately 3% of respiratory cases, alongside other viruses like Influenza A and B, SARS-CoV-2, and RSV.
No unusual surge or deaths in India
According to the Centre, there has been no unusual spike in Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases. Additionally, no deaths linked to HMPV have been reported in India.
Understanding HMPV and its symptoms
HMPV, often compared to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), manifests as a respiratory illness with symptoms such as fever, nasal congestion, runny nose, and cough. In severe cases, it may lead to wheezing, rapid breathing, or pneumonia, especially in infants and immunocompromised individuals.
Symptoms in children:
• Fever, nasal congestion, and cough
• Severe cases may cause bronchiolitis or pneumonia
• Difficulty breathing and chest retractions
Symptoms in adults:
• Sore throat, cough, nasal congestion, and fatigue
• Symptoms are typically mild but can worsen in older adults or those with chronic conditions.
Can HMPV trigger a pandemic?
Health authorities, including the WHO and ICMR, stress that HMPV is not a pandemic threat. Preventive measures such as wearing masks, maintaining hand hygiene, and consulting a doctor in case of severe symptoms are key to managing the virus.
As states continue monitoring the situation, health experts assure that India is well-prepared to handle any potential rise in HMPV cases.
