As cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) are being reported across India, the government has assured that robust surveillance is in place to manage the situation. The Union Health Secretary, however, emphasized that there has been no surge in respiratory illnesses in the country at present.
During a meeting chaired by Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava, states and union territories were urged to assess the situation regarding respiratory illnesses. The Health Secretary also reviewed the current status of respiratory illness management and public health measures in place. Authorities were advised to ramp up awareness efforts on preventive measures and to enhance and monitor Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) surveillance.
The statement clarified that data from the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) does not show any unusual increase in ILI and SARI cases, a finding that was also supported by the ICMR’s sentinel surveillance data.
“HMPV is one of several respiratory viruses that can affect individuals across all age groups, particularly in winter and early spring. The infection is usually mild and self-limiting, with most patients recovering without intervention. Diagnostic facilities are readily available through ICMR-VRDL labs,” the statement added.
Union Health Minister JP Nadda reassured the public on Monday, emphasizing that there is no reason for concern. He highlighted that HMPV, first identified in 2001, does not pose a new threat.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) confirmed the detection of two HMPV cases in Bengaluru, Karnataka, and another in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, as part of ongoing surveillance efforts. A third case was reported in Tamil Nadu.
Nadda reassured the public, stating, “HMPV is not a new virus. It was first identified in 2001, and it primarily spreads through the air, affecting people of all ages, especially during colder months.” He further assured that the government, alongside ICMR and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), is monitoring the situation closely to ensure preparedness for any developments.