In response to concerns about the spread of HMPV (human metapneumovirus) in China, the Directorate General of Health Services reassured the public that there is “nothing to be alarmed about,” according to Doordarshan.
Atul Goel, Director-General of the health body, clarified that there have been no reported cases of HMPV in India so far. “There has been news about HMPV outbreak in China and that it is serious. We don’t think so, let me be very clear, it is like any other respiratory virus that causes flu-like symptoms mostly in elders and kids aged under 1,” Goel stated.
He emphasized that respiratory illnesses are common during the winter season, and India’s hospitals are well-equipped to handle such cases. “Specifically medicines are not needed because there are not anti-viral drugs against this. There are no major cases, neither in hospitals nor as per ICMR data. There is nothing to be alarmed about,” Goel added.
Earlier, ANI reported that the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), under the Union Health Ministry, is actively monitoring seasonal influenza and respiratory cases in India. While the HMPV outbreak in China has not been officially confirmed, the NCDC is reportedly liaising with international health organizations to stay informed.
Health concerns related to respiratory illnesses are common during the winter months in India, especially with the cold wave and poor air quality. Meanwhile, Chinese health authorities recently announced the establishment of a monitoring system to track pneumonia cases of unknown origin, anticipating an increase in respiratory illnesses during winter. This system is aimed at enhancing preparedness to manage emerging pathogens, a lesson learned from the COVID-19 outbreak five years ago.
