SHILLONG, Jan 7: The Meghalaya government on Tuesday reviewed the state’s preparedness for the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) while claiming that the health system is strong and well-equipped to tackle any outbreak situation.
The Health Experts Committee of the Department of Health and Family Welfare convened a meeting to discuss reports on the HMPV flagged by various news channels.
The committee assessed the current threat and reviewed the preparedness of the state health machinery in dealing with the virus.
Several issues pertaining to the virus were discussed in the meeting. It was informed that the HMPV is not a new virus and has been circulating among the population for two decades. It was discovered in 2001. The virus causes flu-like respiratory symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, and running nose.
According to the government, the symptoms are very mild and there have been no deaths reported due to HMPV.
“Current trends are consistent with seasonal patterns and do not indicate an unusual or alarming situation,” Health Secretary, Ramkumar S said.
The public was encouraged to follow basic hygiene practices such as frequent handwashing and wearing masks in case they have any flu-like symptoms, to reduce the risk of respiratory infections.
It was also informed that HMPV is a virus that particularly affects children below 14 years and elderly patients. “Hence, patients with these symptoms should not delay in availing appropriate medical care from hospitals,” an official said.
The government further said that an Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme will continue to closely monitor the situation to ensure the health and safety of people.
Amid the rise in HMPV cases in India, the Centre on Tuesday asked the states to review surveillance on respiratory illnesses in the country.
The country has reported so far seven cases of HMPV from Maharashtra (2), Karnataka (2), Tamil Nadu (2), and Gujarat (1). All the cases were detected in young children ranging from 3 months old to 13 years old.
“States must strengthen and review the influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) surveillance,” said Union Health Secretary PS Srivastava, while chairing a meeting with States/UTs in a virtual mode.
She reiterated that an increase in respiratory illnesses is usually seen during the winter months.
“The country is well prepared for any potential surge in respiratory illness cases,” the Health Secretary said.
“There is no cause of concern for the public from HMPV which has been present globally since 2001,” Srivastava added.
Srivastava also advised the states to enhance awareness among the population regarding the prevention of transmission of the virus with simple measures such as washing hands often with soap and water; avoid touching their eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands; avoid close contact with people who are exhibiting symptoms of the disease; cover mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, etc. (With inputs from agencies)
