No Cause For Alarm Over HMPV Outbreak, Says Director-General Of Health Services
Amid concerns surrounding the outbreak of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in China, Dr. Atul Goel, Director-General of Health Services, has assured the public that there is no need for alarm and urged people to follow basic precautions to stay safe.
Speaking to the media, Dr. Goel explained that HMPV is similar to other respiratory viruses, such as the common cold, and mainly poses risks to very young children and older adults, where it might cause flu-like symptoms. However, he emphasized that the situation remains manageable in India.
“Our analysis of respiratory outbreaks within the country for 2024 shows no significant surge. During winters, there is usually an increase in respiratory infections, but our hospitals are well-equipped to handle these cases with sufficient supplies and beds,” he said.
Dr. Goel advised the public to take general precautions, such as avoiding close contact with others when experiencing symptoms like cough and cold, and following basic treatment for colds and fevers. “There’s no reason to worry at this stage,” he added.
In the meantime, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), under the Union Health Ministry, is closely monitoring cases of respiratory and seasonal influenza across India. The agency is maintaining coordination with international health organizations to stay updated on global trends.
According to official sources, while there has been a rise in respiratory infections globally, including seasonal flu and viruses like HMPV, rhinovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), the scale and intensity of these infections in China are reported to be lower than the previous year. Such increases in respiratory illnesses are typical during winter months, especially in the northern hemisphere.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed,” officials from the NCDC stated.
This statement comes amid reports of a recent uptick in acute respiratory infections, as highlighted by data from the World Health Organization’s regional office for the Western Pacific (WPRO).
