New Delhi, January 7
HMPV Advisory: Amid the rise in HMPV cases in India, the Center on Tuesday asked states to review surveillance on respiratory diseases. So far 7 cases of HMPV have been reported in the country from Karnataka (2), Gujarat (1) and Tamil Nadu (2). All cases have been found in young children, ranging in age from 3 months to 13 years.
“States need to strengthen and review surveillance of influenza-like illnesses (ILI) and acute respiratory infections (SARI),” Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava said during a virtual meeting with states and union territories. He said that often there is an increase in respiratory diseases during the winter months. Srivastava said, “The country is well prepared for any possible escalation, there is no public concern from HMPV as it has been present worldwide since 2001.
It may be mentioned that the meeting was held in the context of the current situation of respiratory diseases and cases of HMPV in India. Following media reports of an increase in HMPV cases in China, health arrangements in the country have been reviewed. Citing data from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program (IDSP), Srivastava said there has been no abnormal increase in ILI/SARI (Infectious or Respiratory Disease) cases anywhere in the country.
Advice issued during the meeting
Srivastava also advised the states to raise awareness through simple measures. Avoid spreading the virus by washing your hands frequently with soap and water, avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands, and avoiding close contact with people who are showing symptoms of the disease. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing.
It has been reported that viral infection is usually a mild and self-limiting condition and most cases resolve on their own. In this regard, adequate testing facilities are available at ICMR-VRDL laboratories. IANS
